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Alexander Canario: Chicago Cubs First Baseman?

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Ron Luce | Last updated Feb 12, 2025 8:55 PM ET

Although most teams in Major League Baseball are jut starting to report to Spring Training over the next few days, the Chicago Cubs' pitchers and catchers have been on-site since Sunday. With the arrival of players in Mesa, AZ, the fun storylines begin to seep out of camp, establishing storylines to watch over the next month-plus.

One such tidbit has been reported by Chicago Sun-Times writer Maddie Lee. Per her report, the Cubs are kicking the tires on Alexander Canario's potential at first base in Spring Training, providing much-needed depth at the position behind Michael Busch. Canario reportedly took reps at the position on Tuesday.

A little tidbit from Cubs camp:

With limited options behind Michael Busch, the Cubs are evaluating whether to pursue playing Alexander Canario some at first base this spring.

He took reps there yesterday. ⬇️https://t.co/q0Q3iBq5vi
— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) February 12, 2025

Canario has been a top prospect within the Cubs organization for many years. As one of the two major pieces acquired for 2016 NL MVP Kris Bryant back in 2021, Canario has shown incredible promise in the minors. The slugger posted a career-high 37 home runs and 97 RBIs across three levels in 2022, but missed a large chunk of 2023 due to injury. In 2024, Canario posted quality numbers but failed to retain the glimmer as a top prospect.

Now, the time has come for the slugger to find a home, or likely move on from the organization. However, a change in position could not only keep Canario with the Cubs, but also ensure he makes the team when they open in Japan to start the 2025 campaign.

Canario had a cup of coffee with the Cubs in 2024, appearing in 15 games. The right-handed slugger showed promise, slashing .280/.357/.440 with one home run and one double as a part of seven total hits. Perhaps a platoon opportunity with Busch in 2025 will allow Canario to finally breakout at the major league level.

Although there are plenty of storylines to watch in Spring Training, including the competition for the leadoff spot, Canario's possible position change certainly tops the list. It is possible this change will aid the Cubs' once No. 11 prospect in finally finding a home at Wrigley Field this season.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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