The Chicago Cubs are reportedly exploring the possibility of adding former Seattle Mariners utility player Josh Rojas to their roster. This follows a busy offseason for the Cubs, which has seen them make moves to bolster their depth, including the recent trade of former top prospect Matt Mervis to the Miami Marlins in exchange for utility-man Vidal Bruján. Bruján’s addition is particularly significant as it provides much-needed flexibility in the Cubs’ infield, with Nico Hoerner expected to miss part of April due to injury. Bruján can step in at second base until Hoerner returns.
Rojas, 30, had a challenging 2024 season with the Mariners, which ultimately led to the team not tendering him a contract for 2025, making him a free agent. In 142 games last season, Rojas recorded a .225/.304/.336 slash line, with 95 hits, 19 doubles, 8 home runs, 31 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases. Despite the lackluster offensive performance, Rojas showed some promise, ranking in the 89th percentile for Chase percentage and 84th percentile for squaring the ball up. His defensive skills are also notable, as he ranked in the 94th percentile for range at third base, his natural position.
The Cubs’ infield is mostly set, with first base manned by Michael Busch, second base assigned to Hoerner (once healthy), and shortstop secured by Dansby Swanson. This leaves third base as the only unsettled position, where Rojas could fit in. However, Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer has expressed confidence in the ability of Matt Shaw, the team’s top prospect, to compete for the third base job. Hoyer has emphasized the importance of giving Shaw a long look at third base, and while the job isn’t guaranteed, Shaw’s impressive minor league performance has him as the frontrunner.
If the Cubs were to sign Rojas, he would likely take on a bench role in 2025. FanGraphs projects the Cubs’ bench to consist of Carson Kelly/Miguel Amaya, Gage Workman (acquired in the Rule 5 draft), Vidal Bruján, and outfielder Alexander Canario. Rojas’ versatility as a utility player, along with his left-handed bat, would give him an edge over Canario, who is a right-handed bat and primarily an outfielder.
Rojas also holds “Super Two” status, meaning he has the ability to become eligible for arbitration before reaching the typical three-year service time mark. This designation could make him more expensive for any team considering signing him. Spotrac projects Rojas to earn just over $9.7 million, and reports suggest he is seeking a two-year, $19.4 million deal. This salary demand, combined with his underwhelming performance in 2024 and the likelihood of him being a bench player, might make him a costly investment for the Cubs, who have not been willing to make major financial commitments this offseason.
Given the Cubs’ frugality in recent moves, signing Rojas at his projected price might not align with their current strategy, especially with his level of play in 2024 and his potential role on the team. Therefore, while Rojas could provide solid depth, his asking price may ultimately lead the Cubs to look elsewhere for their final roster additions.
