Cubs Predicted to Dump Ex-Yankees Role Player Before End of Season
The Chicago Cubs made moves at the trade deadline to help pass the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central. Could there still be more moves on the way?.
One of the moves the Cubs made at the deadline was acquiring Willi Castro from the Minnesota Twins. The Cubs designated Vidal Bruján for assignment to make room, but FanSided's Jordan Campbell predicted that Castro's arrival would lead to Jon Berti not being on the roster by the end of the year.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 18: Jon Berti #19 of the New York Yankees looks on before Game Four of the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on October 18, 2024...
CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 18: Jon Berti #19 of the New York Yankees looks on before Game Four of the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on October 18, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. More
New"While Vidal Bruján was designated for assignment to make room for Castro, Jon Berti's role also figures to be impacted heavily," wrote Campbell. "All the positions that Berti plays are the same positions that Castro can play. All things being equal, Craig Counsell will likely defer to Castro as being the first man off the bench when a starter needs a day off. That doesn't bode well for Berti, who could lose his roster spot in the coming weeks if the Cubs want to fortify their bench with a top prospect such as Owen Caissie or Moises Ballesteros."
Berti played for the Yankees last season, and he slashed .273/.342/.318 in limited opportunities. He had just 74 plate appearances for the Yankees after dealing with injuries throughout the season. He is a versatile defender and can be a valuable role player.
In 106 plate appearances this season, he has a .496 OPS. However, he has played multiple positions for the Cubs this year. He is a prime candidate to be replaced by one of the Cubs' young prospects.
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