In a move that might raise some eyebrows, the Chicago Cubs have inked a minor league deal with utility player Scott Kingery, marking a potential comeback story for the former Phillies prospect. The team confirmed the signing to reporters, including Maddie Lee of The Chicago Sun-Times, revealing that Kingery will join the MLB camp as a non-roster invitee. But here's where it gets intriguing: after a three-year hiatus from the majors, Kingery resurfaced last season with the Angels, appearing in 19 games and logging 29 plate appearances—his most since 2020. Yet, his performance was a mixed bag, with four hits, two walks, and 11 strikeouts, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering if he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Kingery, now 31, spent the bulk of his 2023 season at Triple-A Salt Lake, where he posted a modest .228/.284/.402 batting line while striking out in a quarter of his at-bats. This is a far cry from his standout 2024 minor league campaign with the Phillies' top affiliate, where he achieved a rare 25-25 season (25 home runs, 25 stolen bases). And this is the part most people miss: despite his offensive struggles, Kingery's true value lies in his defensive versatility. He can play nearly every position on the field except first base and catcher, making him a potential Swiss Army knife for Cubs manager Craig Counsell.
The Cubs aren't banking on Kingery to be an offensive powerhouse—his career .227/.278/.382 batting line in nearly 1,200 plate appearances (mostly with Philadelphia from 2018-19) speaks to his limitations at the plate. However, his above-average speed and defensive prowess could earn him a spot on the bench during Spring Training. But here's the controversial question: is Kingery's utility enough to justify a roster spot, or is this signing merely a low-risk gamble for the Cubs? Let’s spark some debate—do you think Kingery can still make an impact, or is this the end of the road for the once-promising prospect? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
