Cubs Promote Former Italian National Team Member Robel Garcia
By Parker White
Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein has decided to shake up the big league club and has selected the contract of infielder Robel Garcia from Triple-A Iowa.
To make room on the active roster, the Cubs have optioned right-handed pitcher Dillon Maples.
Cubs Promote Robel Garcia https://t.co/u7OHqD4nlM pic.twitter.com/hJtoekduCW
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) July 3, 2019
Garcia has had an interesting path to the big leagues, to say the least. The 26-year-old signed with the Cleveland Indians back in 2010 out of the Dominican Republic. After four seasons in the minor leagues, Garcia was released but continued his career in Italy, playing for the Italian National Team.
He caught the eye of the Cubs while playing in an exhibition match during Spring Training and ended up signing with the organization, not knowing that in 2019 he'd find himself on a big league roster.
Power-hitting Robel Garcia joining Cubs, completing fascinating journey from Class A to Italy to the majors https://t.co/9kiXAigSpd
— CBS Sports MLB (@CBSSportsMLB) July 3, 2019
In 72 games between Double-A and Triple-A, Garcia slashed .285/.364/.594 with 36 extra-base hits (21 home runs) and 58 RBI. He does strike out a concerning 31% of the time, but his power is undeniable.
Let's see if he provides the spark that Chicago is looking for as the team has surrendered its NL Central lead, now trailing the Brew Crew by one game.