The Cubs have released outfielder Shane Victorino from their Triple-A roster, reports Carrie Muskat of MLB.com (via Twitter).
Victorino, 35, signed a minor league contract with Chicago in Spring Training and, as of a May 11 update from the Des Moines Register, was told that he would be evaluated within a few weeks. It would seem that the Cubs have made their decision in that time or, perhaps, that Victorino exercised an opt-out provision in his deal. The veteran batted .233/.324/.367 in nine game/34 plate appearances in his brief time with the Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate and is now free to pursue an opportunity with another organization.
Back in Spring Training, Victorino at least acknowledged the possibility of retirement, though he was clear at the time that his desire was to continue playing the game he holds so dear to his heart. Said Victorino to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports at the time: “I am my hardest critic, so if I feel like I am done, no one would need to make that decision for me.”
Victorino returned to switch-hitting this offseason after hitting only right-handed in 2015. He’s a career .270/.340/.425 hitter in 1299 big league games and has a pair of All-Star nods under his belt as well as four Gold Glove Awards.
Seems like he may be bound for Texas now after Choo and Hamilton news.
They just called up Jared Hoying and still have Deshields in Triple A and Stubbs and Rua to fill in for Choo. Hamilton on the other hand doesn’t even need a replacement.
Another Red Sox class of 2013 who peaked then, and may be headed to retirement. That’s one of the terrific things about baseball. Sometimes things just come together
Most likely the end of the road for the “Flyin’ Hawaiian” as a MLB player. The Cubs had a potential need for a veteran 4th outfielder in 2016 with the injury to Kyle Schwarber but Matt Szczur has done an admiral job in that role.
The Cubs will be Buyers at the Deadline; Who They Target is the Real Question:
chicagocubschat.com/2016/05/24/cubs-will-buyers-de…
No