Cubs Add Conforto to Opening Day Roster

Former All-Star outfielder looks to revive career with new opportunity in Chicago

Mar. 22, 2026 at 5:13am

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Michael Conforto, a former All-Star with the New York Mets, has signed a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs and earned a spot on their Opening Day roster. Conforto is looking to prove himself after a disappointing stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and recent injuries within the Cubs' outfield may open the door for him to earn playing time, potentially in a right field platoon with Dylan Carlson.

Why it matters

Conforto's signing is an intriguing move for the Cubs, as they look to maximize offensive production in their outfield while managing injuries. The potential Conforto-Carlson platoon highlights a growing trend in MLB of teams leveraging data analytics to optimize lineup construction and take advantage of favorable pitching matchups.

The details

Conforto's peak years with the Mets (2017-2020) showcased his power and on-base ability, but a shoulder surgery in 2022 derailed his momentum. His numbers with the Giants and Dodgers in 2023-2025 were generally average, with a particularly underwhelming 2025 season in Los Angeles. The Cubs' outfield situation has become more fluid due to recent injuries to Tyler Austin and Seiya Suzuki, potentially creating an opportunity for Conforto to earn playing time, potentially in a right field platoon with Carlson.

  • Conforto signed a minor league deal with the Cubs in the offseason.
  • Tyler Austin is sidelined with a knee injury requiring surgery.
  • Seiya Suzuki's injury further complicates the Cubs' outfield situation.

The players

Michael Conforto

A 33-year-old outfielder who was once an All-Star with the New York Mets, but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons.

Dylan Carlson

A young outfielder for the Cubs who has shown better results against right-handed pitchers than left-handed pitchers in 2025.

Seiya Suzuki

The Cubs' starting outfielder who is currently sidelined with an injury.

Tyler Austin

A bench player signed by the Cubs who is currently sidelined with a knee injury requiring surgery.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Cubs may deploy a right field platoon featuring Conforto and Carlson, which could maximize offensive output until Suzuki returns from injury.

The takeaway

Conforto's signing highlights the Cubs' efforts to optimize their outfield production through data-driven lineup decisions, as teams across MLB increasingly leverage platoon strategies to gain an edge.