Cubs’ 3-Year Infielder Joins AL Leader Quickly After Roster Cut
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- Sports Money Cubs’ 3-Year Infielder Joins AL Leader Quickly After Roster Cut By Peter Chawaga,
- Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights.
- NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 07: Nick Madrigal #1 of the Chicago Cubs looks on from the dugout during the sixth inning of the game against the New York Mets at Citi Field on August 07, 2023 in New York City.
Sports Money Cubs’ 3-Year Infielder Joins AL Leader Quickly After Roster Cut By Peter Chawaga,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow Author Jun 30, 2026, 07:30am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary Former Chicago Cubs infielder Nick Madrigal has quickly signed a minor-league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, an American League division leader. This move comes just one day after he left the Los Angeles Angels organization, having been designated for assignment and declining an outright assignment. Madrigal, a former first-round pick who played over 200 games for the Cubs, missed the entire 2025 season due to shoulder surgery before a brief Angels stint where he hit .273. The Rays, needing infield depth due to injuries, see Madrigal as an experienced, low-risk addition to bolster their roster as they push for the postseason. This offers Madrigal another opportunity to return to the majors.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 07: Nick Madrigal #1 of the Chicago Cubs looks on from the dugout during the sixth inning of the game against the New York Mets at Citi Field on August 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)Getty ImagesFor players on the fringe of a major league roster, just a few days can make a significant difference in the chances for a big-league opportunity.