Cubs claim power hitter Franmil Reyes off waivers

Early Monday afternoon, the Chicago Cubs made what some may consider a surprising move, when they went out and claimed Franmil Reyes off waivers from the Cleveland Guardians.

Reyes, who is currently in the midst of his worst season of his career, will join the Cubs looking to bounce back. Reyes is batting .213 this season with only nine home runs, while striking out in 37.1 percent of his at-bats.

For the Cubs, this is a worthy gamble that they were willing to take on. Reyes has had huge power numbers in the past, providing some serious damage in the Guardians lineup for the past couple of seasons. Reyes should slide into the Cubs designated hitter spot from the get-go and try and get a chance to turn around his season.

The former top prospect is only owed $1.5 million this season, and the Cubs have two more years of control over Reyes if they decide to keep him. Even better, Chicago did not have to make a corresponding roster move as they have a couple of open spots on the 40-man.

Coming into this season, Reyes had the best year of his career. Last year, Reyes hit 30 home runs with an .846 OPS – a personal best. The strikeout numbers will always be high, but it can be forgiven if he is providing pop like that.

Franmil Reyes gives this Cubs offense some needed power

With the Cubs certainly out of contention for 2022, it is a very sound move all things considered. They will continue to test guys and see if they can make an impact beyond 2022. If the Cubs like what he does going forward the rest of the season, they can keep him for next year at a very small price.

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Reyes has the power, and he has proved it in the past. If he could get enough at-bats with the Cubs this season, hopefully there is a glimmer of hope that he could turn his season around.