The Los Angeles Dodgers made their first official move of the offseason, claiming Christian Cairo off waivers from the New York Mets.
The Dodgers have been inactive since the offseason began more than a week ago, but now that the General Managers’ meetings are taking place in Las Vegas, they have started to turn their wheels.
The Dodgers are claiming Cairo, who was designated for assignment by the Mets six days ago, on November 3rd.
With spots open on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers can easily add Cairo for now.
Who is Christian Cairo?
Cairo is a 25-year-old infielder who can play shortstop, third base, and second base. He hits right-handed and was a fourth-round pick in the 2019 MLB Draft.
He was drafted by the Cleveland Guardians and stayed with the team until the Atlanta Braves selected him in the Rule 5 Draft.
However, he lasted only a short time with the Braves before they sent him back to the Guardians. He chose free agency after the 2025 season and signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.
He stuck around in the minor leagues before the Phillies designated him for assignment in September. The Mets picked him up off waivers and less than a month later DFA’d him as well.
Can Cairo help the Dodgers?
Cairo offers infield depth, can cover multiple spots, and brings plenty of base-running juice.
Over his last three years in the minor leagues, he has 25 or more stolen bases in each season. Last year, he hit .230/.381/.300, lacking any notable slugging.
2025 was slightly better, with a .237/.338/.331 line. He has never hit more than six home runs in a minor league season.
He tends not to strike out much, putting his bat on the ball, and he could develop into a valuable, speedy contact hitter who walks a decent amount.
