The Chicago Cubs announce that they have claimed outfielder Julio Borbon off waivers from the Texas Rangers. As the corresponding move, the Cubs have designated infielder Alberto Gonzalez for assignment. With the Cubs designating Gonzalez for assignment, Borbon was added t0 the 40-man roster and to the active roster.
Borbon was designated for assignment by the Rangers a couple days ago. Borbon still has a lot left in him as he’s only 27-years old. But don’t get me wrong, he has struggled in the majors. He’s been called up and sent down for the last few years of his career. Borbon only has 1 at-bat for the Rangers this season. He does have good Triple-A stats, though. Plus, he can run the basepaths and the Cubs need a speed guy. Especially since DFA’ing Campana in the off-season.
In other news, Gonzalez time in Chicago is done for now. He could still be sent to Triple-A if he clears waivers and accepts the assignment. Gonzalez was lucky to make the team in the 1st place. If Darwin Barney didn’t start the season on the 15-day DL, he would have been playing for Iowa Cubs. To make room for Gonzalez on the 40-man roster before the season, the Cubs DFA pitcher Robert Whitnack. Now that doesn’t look too good on the Cubs part.
The only back-up infielder on the Cubs 25-man roster right now is Cody Ransom. Ransom was just picked up on waivers earlier in the week. The Cubs currently have 6 outfielders on the roster and many believe Dave Sappelt will be sent down to Triple-A. Making Borbon take his spot on the roster.
Maybe Ian Stewart is close to returning and this move will make a lot of sense. Stewart takes Gonzalez spot on the roster and Borbon will take Sappelt’s on the roster. That’s still yet unknown, but we shall see.
I like the move a lot and think he’ll work out when all said and done.
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