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February 23, 2026
Michael Conforto Contract: Free agent outfielder Michael Conforto has signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs, according to a report from ESPN released Monday.
The agreement gives the veteran an opportunity to compete for a spot on the major league roster. He is expected to join the club during spring training.
His performance there will determine whether he earns a place on the opening day squad.
Conforto, 32, is coming off a challenging season with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
He posted a .199 batting average, struggling to produce consistently at the plate. The Cubs are offering the former All-Star a chance to rebuild his form.
The deal reflects a low-risk move for Chicago and a critical opportunity for Conforto to extend his major league career.
Outfielder Michael Conforto established himself as a key offensive contributor during his early seasons with the New York Mets. From 2017 through 2020, he posted an impressive .864 OPS.
He also totaled 12.2 wins above replacement over that four-year stretch, according to Baseball-Reference.
His performance during that period marked the most productive phase of his career.
However, his offensive numbers have dropped in recent seasons.
He has not recorded a batting average higher than .239 since 2021. His OPS-plus has also remained at or below league average during that time.
These metrics highlight a decline in overall offensive efficiency. Over the last three years, Conforto has hit 47 home runs combined.
He spent part of that span with the San Francisco Giants before later joining the Los Angeles Dodgers.
He became a free agent after his time with Los Angeles, seeking another opportunity to continue his major league career.
The Chicago Cubs are entering spring training with multiple outfielders competing for limited roster spots.
Among the non-roster players in camp are experienced outfielders Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick.
The organization is closely reviewing its options to determine the most effective outfield alignment before the regular season begins.
A major focus for the team is strengthening depth behind center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong.
The Cubs want a dependable reserve who can step in when needed and maintain defensive stability.
Roster competition could intensify as some regular players prepare for international duty.
Crow-Armstrong and outfielder and designated hitter Seiya Suzuki are expected to leave camp temporarily to represent their countries in the World Baseball Classic.
Their absence is likely to create additional opportunities for non-roster invitees to demonstrate their value and compete for a place on the major league roster.
Veteran outfielder Michael Conforto has delivered consistent power during his time in the major leagues.
He has totaled 179 career home runs. He has also contributed 23 stolen bases.
His career OPS-plus stands at 115, indicating offensive performance above the league norm.
The minor league contract between Conforto and the Chicago Cubs was first reported by MLB Network.
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