The Cubs have re-signed outfielder Dylan Carlson to a minor league contract following his designation for assignment and subsequent election for free agency. Although officially unannounced, the transaction has been logged in the MLB database, and Carlson appeared with the Triple-A Iowa team. The 27-year-old, once a first-round pick and a top-10 prospect, is returning after a lackluster stint, going hitless in four at-bats with Chicago prior to his reassignment.

By the Numbers
  • In 2021, Carlson played 149 games, slashing .266/.343/.437 with 18 homers.
  • Since then, he has a batting line of .220/.302/.339 across 1253 plate appearances, 17% below league average.
State of Play
  • The Cubs' roster has been affected mainly by pitching injuries, allowing Carlson a potential path back due to depth concerns.
  • With Seiya Suzuki back in the lineup, the outfield includes Carlson along with Ian Happ and Pete Crow-Armstrong.
What's Next

If injuries strike again, Carlson might be called up, but his competition includes former top prospect Kevin Alcantara and waiver pick Justin Dean, who are also on the 40-man roster.

Bottom Line

Despite a promising start to his career, Carlson faces significant challenges to reclaim his previous form, highlighting the difficulties in transitioning from a top prospect to a reliable major leaguer.