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The Cincinnati Reds just made a correct, albeit still surprising, roster move. The Red announced that they have activated veteran infielder Jeimer Candelario off the IL, and consequently, designated him for assignment. Of course, Candelario, a former Chicago Cubs prospect, signed a three-year deal with the Reds before the 2024 season worth $45MM. Candelario's deal with the Reds came after his reunion with the Cubs in 2023 after being acquired by the team at the Trade Deadline.
Candelario had a forgettable run with the Reds. In his first season in Cincinnati, Candelario slashed .225/.279/.429/87 wRC+ with 20 home runs. This season with the Reds, the power completely disappeared from Candelario's offensive profile. Candelario only had 2 home runs through 91 plate appearances with a lowly wRC+ of 8. Candelario hasn't played since the end of April, working his way back from a back injury.
This Reds roster surprise has Cubs fans rethinking their own depth
Considering the Cubs are in a spot where they are likely looking for improvements to their depth at third base, chances are, Jed Hoyer's front office will have a conversation about Candelario's availability. Given that Candelario carries a $13MM salary for 2026, it's a foregone certainty he will pass through waivers unclaimed. Assuming he becomes a free agent afterward, he can sign for the league minimum with any team. That would be the reason why, at the very least, there will be a conversation had by the Cubs' front office.
The Cubs bringing back Candelario this season will need to be viewed through a different lens than when they brought him back in 2023. In trading for him in 2023, the Cubs were looking for a starter at one of their corner infield spots, and Candelario was one of the best rental bats available.
This season, the Cubs are likely looking for an improvement over Vidal Bruján. Bruján hasn't been the bench piece the Cubs were hoping he would be when they traded for him in the offseason. Bruján is entering Monday with a wRC+ of 17 on the season. Given that Candelario's offensive profile suggests there is power in his bat, despite his struggles this season, it could be a worthwhile gamble for the Cubs. However, if the Cubs pass on the opportunity, there won't be sleep lost. That said, the Cubs would be wise to start looking for bench improvements at third base, especially when you consider Matt Shaw's recent slump.