Cubs Rumors: Bench targets emerge if these teams wave white flag

One of the standout performers for the Minnesota Twins against the Chicago Cubs was utility man Willi Castro. Demonstrating an ability to play each corner outfield spot and second base during the games against the Cubs, Castro has the level of versatility the Cubs value out of their bench players. With the Cubs eyeing an improvement over their current bench options, Jed Hoyer's front office likely took notice of Castro last week, who also added a home run during the series.

North Side Baseball reported last month that Castro would be on the Cubs' radar at the deadline, and confirmation was provided by Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic. The Cubs' beat writers note that if the Twins become sellers at the deadline, the Cubs would have an interest in Castro.

With a slash line of .266/.359/.432 through 277 plate appearances this season, Castro would be an immediate upgrade on the roster over Jon Berti and Vidal Bruján. Add in that Castro is also carrying a 124 wRC+, and he would also give the Cubs an option at third base if the determination is made that Matt Shaw shouldn't be in the starting lineup.

Watch these teams for sneaky bench options

As of this weekend, the Twins remain very much in the mix of a crowded Wild-Card picture in the American League. If that remains the case at the deadline, it may be difficult for the Cubs to pry Castro away from a team that has the hopes of reaching the postseason in 2025. That said, if the Twins fall out of contention, Castro, a free agent after the season, seems likely to be moved.

The other potential bench option listed by Sharma and Mooney was Rob Refsnyder of the Boston Red Sox. Like the Twins, the Red Sox are at the center of the Wild-Card race in the American League, and there's no certainty they will sell. Even if they don't, however, there could be a scenario where the Red Sox move Refsnyder to add pitching. The Cubs could check that box.

Though he has experience in the infield during his earlier seasons, Refsnyder has predominantly been an outfielder for the better part of the last 5 years. The Cubs don't have an exact need for an outfielder, but Refsnyder's 131 wRC+ this season would speak to raising the floor of production of the Cubs' bench.

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