The Chicago Cubs have added a versatile speed threat to their roster, reportedly signing free agent infielder Jon Berti to a contract of undisclosed length and salary. Robert Murray of Fansided first reported the signing. Berti has played most of his career for the Miami Marlins, spending last season with the New York Yankees. Traded to New York this past spring, the Yankees decided to non-tender Berti on November 3. The 34-year-old has spent time at virtually every position on the diamond and will add his significant speed to the Cubs roster.
Report: Cubs Sign Utility Infielder Jon Berti
Though he was not a highly-touted offseason target, Berti has subtly been one of the league’s most useful utility infielders since debuting at 28 years old in 2018. In addition to his positional versatility, the Michigan native boasts wicked speed. In fact, Berti quietly led the entire major leagues in stolen bases in 2022 with 41, accomplished in just 102 games. Despite not ever claiming a full-time starting role, Berti has always been a consistent presence in the field and on the base paths.
Notably, Berti had a fairly significant role in the Yankees’ postseason run this past October. Stepping in at first base during the American League Division Series for an injured Anthony Rizzo, Berti played the new position spectacularly. This highlights not only his usefulness off the bench, but his above-average fielding skills (particularly at third base), accumulating 2 DRS in just 18 games at third last season.
While his role will mostly be relegated to that of a bench player, Berti can still be a major contributor next season for the Cubs. His speed, defense, and relatively average bat make him a viable option for an injured infielder, pinch runner, or platoon starter.
