The Chicago Cubs have added one significant bat their lineup with the acquisition of left-handed hitting infielder Michael Busch. The 2019 first round pick is now with the Cubs along with right-handed relief pitcher Yency Almonte. The big story here is what Busch’s presence on the Cubs roster means for the rest of the team and we already have an idea of where Busch will slot in.

Busch, who is listed as a third baseman and started 10 of his 18 games at the hot corner with the Dodgers in 2023, is now expected to become the primary first baseman for the Cubs to begin spring training. While Busch broke out offensively in recent years at the plate in Double-A and Triple-A, he has not been able to lock down a defensive position. When he has played third base, Busch has been shaky, committing 13 errors in 538 innings at Triple-A in 2023.

While Busch seems to have the skillset to provide some roster flexibility, with previous starting experience in the corner outfield spots, the Cubs may be envisioning him as their future first baseman.

After a slow start, the Cubs are starting to ramp up their offseason aggressiveness. By adding Busch, they potentially address a huge lineup hole and bring in a slugging lefty who could be the long-term answer at first. Trade breakdown w/ @FabianArdaya: https://t.co/g23HqVKROP

— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) January 11, 2024