A surprise trade deal: The Chicago Cubs today signed utility man Scott Kingery — to a MiLB contract with an invitation to major league Spring Training. The Cubs have taken a gamble on a former star prospect, hoping to turn him into a surprise “salvation” for the 2026 season.
Kingery, 31, had a “one-time” run with the Philadelphia Phillies — where he exploded in 2019 with 19 home runs, 34 doubles, and 55 RBIs.
But since then, his career has been on the decline: injuries, position changes, and inconsistent performances have left him sidelined, bouncing between Triple‑A and teams.
Kingery appeared in just 19 games for the Los Angeles Angels in 2025, going a dismal 4-for-27 at the plate, barely making an impact.
With this landing, many thought he was done. But the Cubs decided to give him a chance — “no big risk, just potential to change his life.”
With an MiLB contract and a Spring Training invitation, Kingery could be a “multi-purpose reserve”: ready to be a backup at 2B, SS, 3B, or even outfield — just like he was used before.
That fits the Cubs’ deep roster strategy — especially after losing several key players at lower levels.
However, signing Kingery also raised doubts among many fans: was this a bold move by the front office, or simply a “necessary gamble”? Some cold comments: “This may just be a stopgap option if the main force is completely gone — let’s hope Kingery doesn’t turn into a disappointing replica of his time with the Phillies.”
Because, since his peak in 2019, Kingery has never been able to re-establish his form. Instability, irregularity in role — from center infield to fielding and sometimes even… pitching (he was once used as a pitcher in a double‑header) — has made him considered “out of sync” in MLB.
For the Cubs, signing him now can be seen as an experiment: if Kingery suddenly finds himself, performing well in Spring Training, he could be an extremely valuable “wild card” — versatile, flexible, and cheap bench depth. If not — he could be proof that “a faded star is still a faded star.”
And given the Cubs’ projected roster instability next season—and their desire to secure roster depth—it could be a sensible move: low risk, high potential. The question is: can Kingery bounce back—or will this be a “write-it-and-forget-it” signing?
MLB is watching. The Cubs have done what few teams dare to do: give a former talent one last chance to hope for a miracle.
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