Scott Kingery, once a highly touted prospect, is getting another shot at the big leagues, but this time with the Chicago Cubs. It's a low-risk, potentially high-reward move that could pay dividends down the line. But is it the right move for a team aiming for contention?
The Cubs have officially signed the utility player to a minor league deal, extending an invitation for him to join their major league camp as a non-roster player, according to reports from Maddie Lee of The Chicago Sun-Times and other outlets. This essentially means Kingery will have to earn his spot on the roster during Spring Training.
Kingery, now 31, briefly resurfaced in the majors this past season, appearing in 19 games with the Los Angeles Angels. That stint marked his return to MLB action after a three-year absence. Those 29 plate appearances were his most in a single season since 2020. During that brief period, he managed four hits and two walks, while also striking out 11 times. For his career, Kingery holds a .227/.278/.382 batting average across nearly 1200 plate appearances, primarily during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies from 2018 to 2019, where he was initially seen as a potential star.
Before his stint with the Angels, Kingery spent the majority of the 2024 season with the Angels' Triple-A affiliate, Salt Lake Bees. There, he posted a .228/.284/.402 slash line, along with a strikeout rate of 25%. This was a slight dip in performance compared to his 2023 season with the Phillies' Triple-A affiliate, where he had a more impressive year, achieving a 25-25 season (25 home runs and 25 stolen bases).
The Cubs aren't likely expecting Kingery to be a major offensive force. Instead, his value lies in his defensive versatility. He is capable of playing multiple positions across the field, with the exception of first base and catcher. Furthermore, Kingery is known for his above-average speed, making him a potential asset on the basepaths. He'll be competing for a spot on manager Craig Counsell's bench during Spring Training, aiming to provide depth and flexibility to the Cubs' roster.
But here's where it gets controversial... Is Kingery a worthwhile gamble for the Cubs? Some fans might see this as a flyer on a player with past potential, while others might view it as a waste of time and a roster spot that could be used for a younger, more promising prospect.
And this is the part most people miss: Kingery's signing could be a strategic move by the Cubs to add a versatile player who can fill multiple roles on the team. In today's game, where roster flexibility is paramount, having a player like Kingery could prove to be invaluable. He provides insurance in case of injuries and allows Counsell to mix and match his lineup based on matchups.
What do you think? Is Scott Kingery a valuable addition to the Cubs organization, or is this a move that won't ultimately impact the team's success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
