Cubs Sign Peralta, Smith to Minor League Deals

Outfielder David Peralta and first baseman Dominic Smith inked to add depth to Chicago's roster

Peralta brings experience and versatility to the Cubs' outfield

The Chicago Cubs have signed outfielder David Peralta and first baseman Dominic Smith to minor league contracts with invitations to major league spring training, the team announced Monday.

Peralta, 35, is a two-time Gold Glove winner who has played in the majors for 10 seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Rays. He is a versatile outfielder who can play all three positions and has a career batting average of .282 with an on-base percentage of .349.

Smith, 27, is a former All-Star who has played in the majors for six seasons with the New York Mets. He is a left-handed power hitter who has a career batting average of .282 with 100 home runs.

Both Peralta and Smith are expected to compete for a spot on the Cubs' major league roster this spring. The Cubs are in need of outfield depth after trading away Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki in the offseason. Smith will compete with Patrick Wisdom for the starting first baseman job.

The signings of Peralta and Smith are the latest moves by the Cubs to improve their roster for the 2023 season. The Cubs have also signed free agent pitchers Jameson Taillon and Brad Hand, and traded for shortstop Dansby Swanson.

Conclusion

The Cubs' signing of Peralta and Smith is a sign that the team is serious about contending in 2023. Peralta is a proven winner who can provide the Cubs with a much-needed boost in the outfield. Smith is a young power hitter who has the potential to be a star. The Cubs are hoping that both players can help lead them to the playoffs for the first time since 2017.