Chicago Cubs: Three takeaways from series sweep of Cardinals

Takeaway #3: Carlos Gonzalez is already making an impact

The Cubs signed veteran outfielder Carlos Gonzalez to a minor league contract in late May, and it didn’t take long for him to make his way up to the major leagues.

Gonzalez was a superstar in his prime, driving in runs in bunches each season. He hit over 20 home runs in four straight seasons with the Colorado Rockies from 2010 to 2013. He reached 40 homers on the season in 2015.

CarGo seemed like a guy who may have stuck around too long past his glory days, but since coming up to the Cubs he’s made a great impression. In his first game as a Cub, he made an amazing catch to save multiple runs with the bases loaded.

Gonzalez made an impact in Sunday’s game as well when he started in right field. Gonzalez went 2-4 with an RBI and hit his first home run in a Cubs uniform. It was a welcome sight for Cubs fans who watched Gonzalez torch the team in the 2010s.

For the Cubs, it’s nice to have a guy like Gonzalez coming off the bench who can make a difference. He also adds a key veteran presence in the locker room.

The Cubs travel to Colorado next, and Gonzalez will return to his old home ballpark for the first time as a Cub. He already reunited with former teammates and coaches last week when the Rockies came to Wrigley for a three-game series.

With the Cubs and Brewers locked in a battle for first place in the division, the Cubs will use all the help they can get. The team travels west to face the Rockies and Los Angeles Dodgers next week. Keep checking Da Windy City for more Cubs updates!