Miguel Andujar Signs with Padres, Not Cubs - What It Means for Chicago’s Roster Plans
The Cubs had their eyes on Miguel Andujar as a potential right-handed bat off the bench, but that door officially closed Wednesday night. The 30-year-old slugger has agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with the San Diego Padres, according to multiple reports. It’s a solid pickup for San Diego - and a swing-and-miss for Chicago, who appeared to be in the mix for his services.
Andujar’s resurgence in 2025 made him an intriguing target. After battling injuries for several seasons, the former Yankee finally stayed healthy and showed he still has some juice in the bat.
Across 94 games split between Oakland and Cincinnati, he posted a 125 wRC+, capped by a torrid stretch with the Reds in the final two months: .359/.400/.544 with a 159 wRC+ in 34 games. That’s not just production - that’s impact.
And while the Cubs didn’t land him, it’s worth exploring why they were interested in the first place - and where they might pivot next.
A Missed Matchup Advantage
Andujar’s profile fits a very specific need: a right-handed hitter who punishes left-handed pitching. Over the past three seasons, he’s slashed .374/.406/.560 in 192 plate appearances against lefties - good for a 169 wRC+.
That’s not a fluke. That’s a weapon.
For a Cubs team looking to round out its bench with situational bats and defensive flexibility, Andujar made a lot of sense. He’s logged time at both corner infield spots and in the outfield, giving a manager options late in games or when matchups call for a righty stick.
Cubs’ Current Bench Picture
Without Andujar in the mix, the Cubs will head into spring training with a handful of players competing for limited bench spots. Chas McCormick and Dylan Carlson - both offseason acquisitions - are expected to battle it out in the outfield. Owen Miller, signed earlier this week, seems more like a depth piece for Triple-A Iowa, but he’ll be in camp.
Then there’s Kevin Alcantara, one of the organization’s top outfield prospects. The 21-year-old looks poised to start the season in Triple-A to get consistent at-bats rather than ride the bench in the big leagues. That makes sense developmentally, and it also opens up a potential spot for someone like Tyler Austin - though his hold on a roster spot isn’t rock solid either.
Austin signed a split contract, which means he’ll earn a higher salary even if he starts the year in Triple-A. That gives the Cubs some flexibility, but it also signals that his place on the 26-man roster isn’t guaranteed.
Could Another Move Be Coming?
With Andujar off the board, the Cubs could still look to add another right-handed bat before Opening Day. There are a few names floating around who fit the mold - players with positional versatility and track records against lefties.
Ramon and Luis Urías both bring MLB experience, solid gloves, and some thump against southpaws. Ramon has been the more consistent performer recently, while Luis has the longer-term offensive upside.
There’s also the question of whether the Cubs revisit a reunion with Mike Tauchman. The veteran outfielder had his 2025 season cut short due to a torn meniscus in his right knee, but if healthy, he’s a known quantity in Chicago and could provide depth at all three outfield spots.
The Bigger Picture
Even without Andujar, the Cubs are in a decent spot. They’ve built out their bench with competition and flexibility - and that’s by design.
McCormick and Carlson bring different skill sets to the outfield mix. Matt Shaw and Miguel Amaya are young players who could provide upside in utility and backup catcher roles, respectively.
And if Alcantara starts in Iowa, it gives the front office a chance to evaluate veterans like Austin and see if there’s room to add another piece before the season gets rolling.
Pitchers and catchers report on February 11, and while the core of the roster looks mostly set, there’s still time for tweaks. Andujar may be off the table, but the Cubs’ front office isn’t done scanning the market. Depth matters - and in a 162-game grind, having the right bench can be the difference between surviving and thriving.