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Chicago Cubs new outfielder Dylan Carlson

Jed Hoyer and the Chicago Cubs have been busy this offseason, with the two splash moves being the trade for Edward Cabrera and the signing of star third baseman Alex Bregman.

For the first time in years, the Cubs are operating like a big-market team that wants to win. Fans could not be more excited to see the front office finally getting aggressive.

Since the Bregman move, Chicago has been fairly quiet. However, the team has still been adding depth for the organization.

Recently, the team agreed to a deal with former Houston Astros outfielder Chas McCormick. Now, the Cubs have brought in a former St. Louis Cardinals outfielder.

Chicago Cubs Agree to Terms With Dylan Carlson

At one point in time, Dylan Carlson was a starting outfielder for the hated division rival Cardinals. He was considered to be an up-and-coming talent, but never quite panned out.

According to Chicago analyst Greg Zumach, the Cubs have decided to sign Carlson to a minor league contract to further increase their outfield depth.

“There was some ambiguity about whether the Cubs would sign Dylan Carlson with Chas McCormick and Justin Dean in the organization, but it’s my understanding Cubs are signing Carlson to an MiLB deal with a ST invite,” Zumach wrote on X. “He’s battled health issues, but could be a nice add if healthy.”

Carlson played the 2025 MLB season with the Baltimore Orioles. He appeared in 83 games, hitting six home runs to go along with 20 RBI and a slash line of .203/.278/.336.

His best career season came in St. Louis back in 2021, when he played in 151 games, hit 18 home runs, drove in 65 RBI, and slashed .266/.343/.437. This move might not end up having an impact on Chicago’s 2026 season, but he could end up being solid depth for Craig Counsell.

Fans Should Be Excited About the Future of the Cubs

Last season, the Cubs appeared to be a legitimate World Series contender throughout much of the year. Unfortunately, injuries played a big factor in the team’s NLDS loss against the rival Milwaukee Brewers.

Being able to add both Cabrera and Bregman to the roster have increased the team’s ceiling. However, Chicago did lose superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Los Angeles Dodgers in MLB free agency.

After fans were calling for Hoyer’s job entering the offseason, the tune has changed. The Cubs are looking like a serious National League contender heading into this season.

Chicago is likely done with its splash moves in free agency. Zac Gallen could still be an option for the team and trade options could be available, but the Cubs will exit this offseason as a big winner.

Carlson could end up being a flash in the pan signing, but if he can stay healthy and play up to his talent level, Chicago may have picked up another quality piece who can play a role in 2026.

Evan Massey Evan Massey is a sports reporter and analyst located in Indianapolis, Indiana who covers the NFL, NBA, MLB, WNBA, and college sports. He has been featured on many publications, including Newsweek, Athlon Sports, ESPN, Yahoo! Sports, Forbes, Bleacher Report, Sporting News, and many others. In his free time, Evan enjoys spending time with his wife and son. More about Evan Massey