Chicago Cubs and Shane Victorino Part Ways, Then Reunite
Shane Victorino had a whirlwind ride earlier this week when the Chicago Cubs released him, only to re-sign him to a minor league deal. The move, although a little weird at first glance, actually made sense as a part of a series of moves from the team to prepare for the new season.
Part of the decision to re-sign the 35-year old outfielder was the fact that utility player Javier Baez was relegated to the disabled list. The team likewise announced that the final roster spots are to be given to outfielder Matt Szczur, pitcher Neil Ramirez, and infielder Tommy La Stella, according to The Associated Press.
But Victorino wasn't the only one who was given the boot and then re-signed right after. Chicago did the same to reliever Manny Parra and infielder Munenori Kawasaki, both of which have also been re-signed to separate minor league assignments. And by the looks of it, the team is geared up and ready for Opening Day on April 4 against the Los Angeles Angels.
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Victorino is a veteran and journeyman, having played in the majors for several teams in a career that started in 2003. He had stints with the San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, and the Los Angeles Angels.
Early in his career, he was mainly utilized as a switch-hitter, but he was forced to adapt to changes due to several health issues. He previously dealt with knee problems, as well as hamstring and back issue. As a consequence of the growing list of recurring injuries, he transformed himself into a right-hander at bat.
But the new deal he inked with the Cubs does not guarantee him a spot in the major league, especially because he's an outfielder. The team is loaded with talent over those three spots, including Jason Heyward, Dexter Fowler, and Jorge Soler.
