Dodgers Sign Longtime Cubs Infielder in Free Agency
The Los Angeles Dodgers signed infielder David Bote to a minor league deal, per Aram Leighton. The deal includes an invite to the Dodgers’ big league spring training camp.
Bote, 31, has sported a .711 OPS over parts of six major league seasons with the Chicago Cubs. In 2019, Bote signed a five-year, $16 million contract with the Cubs.
The Dodgers and infielder David Bote have agreed to a minor league deal, sources tell @JustBB_Media.
Bote, 31, has posted a .711 OPS over parts of six big league seasons with the Cubs.
— Aram Leighton (@AramLeighton8) December 14, 2024
In 37 games for the Cubs this season, Bote hit .304 over 48 plate appearances. Bote spent most of his time playing third base, but also filled in at first and second. Although Bote is a versatile player and posted solid offensive numbers off the bench, he was designated for assignment by Chicago in order to free up a spot on the 40-man roster.
Bote was 2-for-12 since the All-Star break, which was likely a factor in the Cubs’ decision to outright the infielder in August. Bote is a fan favorite in Chicago as he is the longest tenured player in the organization since he was a 2012 draft pick. Since then, Bote has played 384 games in the majors and 781 games in the minors.
To Chicago fans, Bote is mostly remembered for his walk-off grand slam in 2018 against the Washington Nationals during a Sunday night game in August. Bote played a big role for the Cubs from 2018-21. He filled in for Kris Bryant when he was injured in 2018 and emerged as a regular starter the following season.
In 2019, Bote played a career-high 127 games with a .362 on-base percentage and .785 OPS. In 2020, Bote led Chicago in runs batted in with 29.
In 2021, Bote was named the Cubs’ Opening Day second baseman over Nico Hoerner. Multiple shoulder injuries sidelined him that same season and he proceeded to miss the start of the 2022 season recovering from shoulder surgery.
Photo Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
