Cubs Sign Another Free Agent After Cody Bellinger Reunion

The Chicago Cubs finally made the big splash their fans were hoping for by bringing back star slugger Cody Bellinger on a three-year deal. Being able to retain the top free agent and Silver Slugger will certainly give the Cubs a boost for next season. And it looks like they are not done.

Chicago signed veteran first baseman Garrett Cooper to a minor league deal and the 33-year-old will join the Cubs' big league spring camp, according to Craig Mish of the Miami Herald.

Chicago Cubs Sign Former All-Star First Baseman

Cooper started 2023 with the Miami Marlins before being traded mid-season to the San Diego Padres. He finished the year slashing .251/.304/.419 and added 17 home runs, 61 RBI, and 42 runs in 123 games. These numbers were similar to his 2022 production that earned him an All-Star nod.

Injuries have long been a concern for Cooper, regularly appearing on the injured list throughout his career. The 123 games in 2023 were in fact the most games he played in his seven-season majors career.

Despite his age and injury concerns, it's still very surprising that Cooper couldn't find a guaranteed contract around the league.

Instead, Cooper will get a chance to compete for a roster spot as a non-roster invitee over the next month. The Cubs still have some depth concerns at first base despite the Bellinger addition, and Cooper could provide a veteran presence there when Bellinger is in center field.

The Chicago Cubs currently have the second-best odds to win the NL Central (+210) on FanDuel Sportsbook. Head over to take advantage of the special sign-up offer that gives $150 in bonus bets when you make a winning wager of $5.

More Cubs news and rumors:

Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.