Chicago Cubs Rumors: This team has more trade chips than you realize

Chicago Cubs: These two make a lot of sense as trade chips

David Bote has come into his own as a big leaguer over the first half of the season. He made his way from Triple-A Iowa to the majors multiple times as the roster shuttles back-and-forth.

In his first 19 major league games, Bote carries a .300 batting average with one home run and a couple runs batted in. Even though those might not be mind-blowing numbers, he has been imposing. He works the count in all of his at-bats and has an excellent glove regardless of where he plays on the field.

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Bote is an excellent 25-year-old player. But the problem for Bote is the entire Cubs infield is young – and there’s just not a spot for him. The diamond is too crowded and he’s a player who appears to have big league talent. In Chicago, he has a very limited future.

A guy who can hit, play first and catch?

Victor Caratini is in a similar spot as Bote. He has been an excellent minor league player who has played relatively well in the majors when he is given a chance.

In 35 games in the majors this year Caratini is hitting .274. He has been the Cubs’ backup catcher for the majority of the season while also getting a few starts at first base. The fact of the matter is that Victor Caratini is a solid catcher who deserves a chance to start far more than he does right now.