Mets snatch ex Cubs fan favorite away before reunion could happen

While the Chicago Cubs are likely done making moves of consequence before Opening Day, there was speculation that Jed Hoyer and Co. could look to address the fringes of the roster. Specifically, adding a left-handed hitter capable of serving as the team's fourth outfielder would make sense. A reunion with Mike Tauchman would've checked that box for the Cubs, but that possibility is no longer an option.

The New York Mets have signed Tauchman to a minor-league deal that includes an invite to spring training. Tauchman will compete with veteran outfielder Tyrone Taylor for a role on the Mets' bench.

Injuries limited Tauchman to 93 games with the Chicago White Sox in 2025, and that likely was the only reason why he was forced to sign a minor-league deal this offseason. When healthy, Tauchman was every bit as valuable as he was during his two years with the Cubs in 2023 and 2024. The 35-year-old outfielder posted a 115 wRC+ with 9 home runs in 385 plate appearances.

Cubs avoid a reunion with Mike Tauchman, fourth outfielder is likely already in camp.

The fact that Tauchman inked a minor-league deal with the Mets would suggest that the Cubs had little interest in a reunion. One would think that had the Cubs had an offer on the table, staying in Chicago would have been a priority for the veteran outfielder.

The Cubs had interest in Austin Hays before he signed with the White Sox last month, so that would suggest they haven't closed the door on the idea of adding an established fourth outfielder to their roster before Opening Day. Andrew McCutchen isn't expected to return to the Pittsburgh Pirates, so he could be an intriguing option for the Cubs if they are determined to add an outfielder in the weeks ahead.

If not, one of Chas McCormick or Dylan Carlson will likely open the season as the Cubs' fourth outfielder. Top prospect Kevin Alcantara is also expected to compete for that spot, but the Cubs may prefer that his development this season includes regular plate appearances with the Iowa Cubs.