Ex-Dodgers Star’s Future Hangs in Balance as Cubs to Sign $6.3M Guardians Discard -Report

Wrigleyville might soon get a shake-up. As the clock ticks down on August, the Cubs have shifted their attention to a veteran who has played 16 seasons in MLB and was just cut loose by the Guardians. The deal might bring depth and leadership. However, it might also make things more complicated at first base, making one of Chicago’s sluggers—an ex-Dodger prospect—wonder how safe his spot truly is.

That 39-year-old veteran? Carlos Santana, who was just released by the Guardians on 28th August. Reason? His 2025 numbers. In 116 games, he hit 225/.316/.333, which was his lowest OPS ever, and he only hit 11 home runs and drove in 52 runs. Now, a free agent valued at $6.3M per Sportarc. He brings an experience of almost 2 decades in the major leagues, which can be of huge help to the Cubs in their Playoff push.

The whispers of him joining the Cubs started when insider Héctor Gómez wrote on X, “SOURCE: The Chicago Cubs are in conversation to acquire veteran first baseman Carlos Santana.” The question is: If they sign him, where does Santana fit into the Cubs’ puzzle?

Even though Santana hasn’t had an excellent year so far, he’ll still be an interesting addition to Chicago’s squad. He probably wouldn’t get to play much, but he won a Gold Glove and could definitely be a useful defensive substitute or pinch hitter late in games. His ability to bat from both sides of the plate gives manager Craig Counsell the kind of tactical freedom that will be invaluable during close playoff races, especially when facing top left-handed relievers. But his arrival could complicate things for Michael Busch.

The former Dodgers prospect is presently playing first base for the Cubs. He has an excellent slash line of .264/.343/.846 in 2025, with 26 home runs and 76 RBIs in about 439 ABs. Busch’s advanced stats show that he has power and consistency, with a 46.1% hard-hit rate, a .360 wOBA, and an expected wOBA of .386. If the two-time All-Star comes to the Cubs, Busch’s role suddenly seems less certain. It might be a tug-of-war between a scout’s comfort with veterans and a slugger’s rise.

As the Chicago Cubs continue to change their squad in order to make another run at the championship, the million-dollar question is whether that mentality will help Busch or force him into a different role. However, as of now, Busch is putting on a great show at the plate.

Michael Busch keeps ranking as the Cubs eye veteran competition

Michael Busch is doing everything he can to maintain his place in Chicago. Even though things are up in the air, the former Dodgers prospect is putting up stats that can’t go unnoticed, laying down the marker for any new arrival.

Busch went 2-for-5 against the Rockies on Friday and hit his 26th home run of the season. It was a solo shot off reliever Anthony Molina in the seventh inning of 418 feet. He scored another run in the Cubs’ 11-7 triumph, showcasing his importance with the bat to the team. As the playoff race heats up, Busch keeps coming through with clutch swings.

This isn’t a one-off. Busch went 2-for-5 against the Angels, this time with a double, an RBI, and two runs scored in a 12-1 blowout win. His ability to make hard contact, hit for extra bases, and turn at-bats into runs no matter who he’s against has become his trademark.

Earlier this week, Busch showed off his situational hitting against the Brewers, going 2-for-4 with a double and driving in three runs in a 4-3 win. These contributions can significantly affect the outcome of a close game, making it difficult to justify replacing him. With Santana coming into the picture, will it disrupt Michael Busch’s rhythm? Or will the competition propel him to reach another level? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.