Chicago Cubs: Calling Up Alexander Canario Could Resolve Key Issues
April 20, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Alexander Canario (4) hits a home run during the sixth inning against the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field. / Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have been struggling significantly lately, unable to secure wins even with late-game leads. A major factor has been their lack of offensive production, with minimal power and frequent games of low run output.
While many are eyeing the MLB trade deadline to acquire a big bat, a potential solution might be promoting a red-hot minor leaguer.
Alexander Canario, who has made brief appearances with the Cubs, hasn’t yet been given a consistent opportunity to showcase his abilities. This season, in 13 games with the Cubs, Canario has posted a .273/.360/.455 slash line with a home run and two RBI.
Why hasn’t he been given a chance during these struggles? Only Jed Hoyer can answer that.
At 24, Canario has demonstrated his hitting talent in short stints. Despite this, Chicago hasn’t shown interest in fully utilizing the young slugger.
In Triple-A Iowa, Canario has slashed .277/.349/.507 with 13 home runs and 36 RBI, meriting a closer look. With the Cubs’ lineup underperforming, there’s no excuse not to give him a chance.
With five weeks until the trade deadline, giving Canario a month to prove his MLB-readiness would be a wise move. He deserves the opportunity.
Having performed well in limited Major League time earlier this year, Craig Counsell and the Cubs’ management need to bring him back and provide consistent playing time.
The Cubs might already have a solution to their offensive woes within their organization, potentially saving valuable trade assets if Canario excels.