Recent Chicago Cubs Player Remains MLB Free Agent After Opening Day

Jon Berti, a versatile veteran who spent last season with the Cubs, is still unsigned as the 2026 season gets underway.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:03am

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Jon Berti, a 36-year-old utility player who spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Cubs, is still a free agent as the 2026 MLB season has begun. Despite generating interest from 10 teams due to his strong performance in the World Baseball Classic, Berti remains unsigned as clubs look to fill roster spots.

Why it matters

As teams finalize their rosters and depth charts, the continued free agency of a player like Berti, who has proven MLB experience and versatility, is noteworthy. His situation highlights the competitive nature of the free agent market and the difficult decisions teams face in rounding out their lineups.

The details

Berti played in 51 games for the Cubs last season, batting .210 with 2 RBIs, 12 runs, and 11 stolen bases. He is coming off a strong showing in the World Baseball Classic, where he posted a 1.132 OPS for Team Italy, drawing interest from 10 MLB clubs. However, he remains unsigned as teams evaluate their roster needs and available free agent options.

  • The 2026 MLB season began on April 1.
  • The Cubs lost to the Cleveland Guardians 4-1 on April 5.

The players

Jon Berti

A 36-year-old utility player who spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Cubs and is currently a free agent.

Jon Morosi

An MLB Network reporter who wrote about Berti's free agent status and interest from 10 teams.

Chicago Cubs

The MLB team Berti played for in the 2025 season.

Cleveland Guardians

The MLB team that defeated the Cubs 4-1 on April 5, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Free agent INF/OF Jon Berti is generating @MLB interest after posting a 1.132 OPS with Team Italy at the @WBCBaseball. Ten teams have checked in, given Berti's bat and versatility. He intends to sign with a contender that needs him to play multiple positions.”

— Jon Morosi, MLB Network Reporter

What’s next

Teams will continue to evaluate their roster needs and available free agents as the 2026 season progresses. Berti will likely sign with a contending team that can utilize his versatility and experience.

The takeaway

The continued free agency of a veteran player like Jon Berti, who has proven MLB experience and versatility, highlights the competitive nature of the offseason roster-building process. As teams finalize their lineups, Berti's situation demonstrates the difficult decisions clubs face in balancing their needs and available options.