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Chicago Cubs Could Have Competition at First Base

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Michael Hanich | Last updated Feb 13, 2025 12:55 PM ET

Spring Training is a time for teams to work out their players and evaluate schemes to see what works best. The Chicago Cubs are a team that is trying out new things with their roster and their depth chart to make a deep postseason run.

On Tuesday, the Cubs took part in a workout with an interesting lineup. Some players participated in drills at secondary positions. First baseman Michael Busch participated in infield drills. Outfielder Alexander Canario engaged in a big change in setting from his usual position, playing at first base.

Canario was open to the idea of taking part in drills as a first baseman, he told the Chicago-Sun Times. He insisted nothing was serious about playing at first base, but it is beneficial to the team and to Canario.

The Cubs look to provide more support in the infield, particularly first base.

The Cubs are doing their due diligence to solidify depth and develop players. There might be some concern with the Cubs, not only with depth but also with productivity.

Busch took a big step from his first year in the league with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023 to last season with the Cubs.

Busch was tied for second on the teams in home runs accounted for (21) and was a consistent hitter. He also, however, had 162 strikeouts and was ninth on the team in batting average (.248).

His contact might be low-risk with a high reward, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t potential holes. Having Canario play some infield could be a beneficial move for depth and talent.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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