Cubs Bring Back Christian Bethancourt, a Sensible Move That Still Feels Familiar

A Move That Makes Sense, Even If It Feels Small

From a roster construction standpoint, this signing checks a box. Catching depth matters, injuries happen quickly at the position, and having a veteran option at Triple-A prevents the Cubs from scrambling if something goes wrong. Bethancourt knows the staff, understands the expectations, and can step in without much adjustment. That part of the decision is easy to defend.

Bethancourt returns to the organization after a brief stint in 2024 where he showed flashes of usefulness in a limited role. He provided some unexpected offense, handled pitchers well, and delivered a few timely moments that stood out more because of the circumstances than the overall production.

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That version of Bethancourt was fine in short bursts. Expecting more than that would be unrealistic.

The frustration comes from the context. This move does nothing to meaningfully raise the ceiling of the roster. It addresses a need, but it does so in the safest possible way. For a fan base still waiting on impact additions or clearer direction, another familiar depth signing lands with a shrug rather than excitement.

Familiar Patterns from the Front Office

This signing fits a pattern the Cubs have leaned into for several seasons now. The team continues to collect depth pieces, veterans on minor-league deals, and low-cost insurance options while bigger questions about the roster remain unanswered. On its own, Bethancourt’s return is reasonable. Stacked on top of similar moves, it starts to feel like hesitation rather than strategy.

Oct 1, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer looks on before a baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field. Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

That does not mean Bethancourt cannot help. He still brings experience, leadership, and a steady presence behind the plate. Those traits have real value over a long season, especially when the unexpected happens. It just means the move feels reactive instead of proactive.

What This Likely Means Going Forward

Bethancourt will head into Spring Training competing for a depth role, likely settling in as a third catcher option at Triple-A. If injuries strike or the Cubs need a short-term fill-in, he becomes a logical call-up. That role is important. It just is not one that changes how anyone views the team’s trajectory.

For fans, this signing lands somewhere between acceptance and impatience. It is hard to criticize the logic, and it is just as hard to feel energized by it. The Cubs are once again playing it safe, making sure the floor is covered while leaving questions about the ceiling unanswered.

Bottom Line

Christian Bethancourt’s return is a solid, low-risk move that strengthens organizational depth. It is also the kind of move that underscores why some fans are growing restless. The Cubs are being careful, methodical, and conservative. Whether that approach is enough remains the bigger question.

This signing works. It just does not inspire.