The Los Angeles Dodgers will sign former Chicago Cubs infielder David Bote to a minor-league deal, according to Aram Leighton of Just Baseball. The deal includes an invite to spring training in 2025. The versatile 31-year-old infielder can play first, second, and third base. This flexibility is a trait the Dodgers value, as the vast majority of their players can play more than one position.
The Dodgers and infielder David Bote have agreed to a minor league deal, sources tell @JustBB_Media.
Bote, 31, has posted a .711 OPS over parts of six big league seasons with the Cubs.
— Aram Leighton (@AramLeighton8) December 14, 2024
Report: Dodgers Sign David Bote to Minor League Deal
Bright But Limited Sample Size
In 37 games this season, the infielder had a .304 batting average before he was designated for assignment by the Cubs in August. Prior to this deal, Bote was the longest-tenured Cub since he was drafted by Chicago in 2012. He signed a five-year extension with the Cubs in 2019 and was the Opening Day second baseman. Unfortunately, the fan-favorite would injure his shoulder that season, which required surgery, and Bote would miss the majority of the 2021 season recovering. As a result, he never was able to regain his spot in the Cubs lineup.
Due For a Change of Scenery
Bote’s stats may seem unimpressive, but he has a grinder mentality similar to Dodgers center fielder Tommy Edman.
What This Means for the Dodgers
This may appear to be a head-scratching move by the Dodgers, considering Mookie Betts is moving back to shortstop and Gavin Lux holding down second base. Still, it is no secret that Los Angeles likes to stockpile depth. One never knows when the injury bug will bite.
Is Something Else Afoot?
The Dodgers were interested in acquiring relief pitcher Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers before he was traded to the New York Yankees. Dodger Blue reports that Gavin Lux was one of the players offered in exchange for the high-leverage reliever. It wasn’t to be, at least this time. Is signing the former Cub insurance for next time?
Whatever the case, David Bote is looking to make the most of this second chance.
Photo Credit: © Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
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