Cubs' Michael Conforto deal makes sense after sudden spring training injury

It turns out the Chicago Cubs' signing Michael Conforto may have been tied to a sudden injury the team experienced during spring training. Craig Counsell told reporters that Tyler Austin will be sidelined for "months" after undergoing surgery on his right knee. Austin signed a split-contract with the Cubs earlier this offseason and seemed to have an inside track toward landing a spot on the team's bench.

A former Yankees top prospect, Austin was attempting to return to Major League Baseball for the first time since 2019. It seemed likely that he was going to make the Cubs' Opening Day roster, serving as the backup first baseman to Michael Busch, and a potential DH option against left-handed pitchers.

FanGraphs, in particular, was high on Austin's return to the majors, projecting him to carry a 112 wRC+ during the 2026 season. Given the role that Austin was expected to have, it had been curious that he had yet to make his way into Cactus League games for the Cubs over the past week. The injury certainly explains the reason for his absence.

Tyler Austin's injury may have paved the way for Michael Conforto to make the Cubs' Opening Day roster.

Austin's status for the 2026 season, now being in jeopardy, likely clears an easier path for Michael Conforto to make the Cubs' Opening Day roster. Mosies Ballesteros is also expected to get reps at first base during spring training, and he could suddenly become the Cubs' backup first baseman. It's also possible that one of Jonathon Long or Owen Miller breaks camp with the Cubs.

If the Cubs are, indeed, comfortable with Ballestero being the backup at first base, it could also be how one of Dylan Carlson or Chas McCormick can make the Opening Day roster. Conforto's defense in the outfield is a liability, and at this point in his career, he's not able to play center field. Had Austin been healthy, that ultimately could have been the reason why Conforto didn't make the roster out of spring training.

Free agency likely wouldn't be a path for the Cubs if they find themselves in a position where they need to add a backup first baseman. Justin Turner remains available, but with the players the Cubs already have in camp, a reunion with the aging veteran doesn't make complete sense.