Chicago Cubs Sign Former A’s Catcher
The Chicago Cubs have brought in a familiar face, signing former Oakland Athletics player Carlos Pérez to a minor league contract. Pérez has been assigned to the Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate in Iowa, adding depth to their roster as the 2025 season approaches.
Pérez, now 34, is seen as a reliable depth option for Chicago. In 2023, he contributed to the Athletics in stretches, both on the field and as a clubhouse leader. That season, Pérez hit .226 with a .293 on-base percentage and six home runs over 189 plate appearances, earning an 83 wRC+ (with 100 being league average). Though he didn’t make it back to the majors in 2024, he excelled with the A’s Triple-A affiliate in Las Vegas, batting .260 with a .344 OBP and smashing 27 home runs in 112 games, good for a 114 wRC+. His power at the plate is well-documented, having hit 31 home runs in consecutive seasons with the Colorado Rockies’ Triple-A team in 2021 and 2022.
Pérez’s professional journey began in 2008 when he signed with the Toronto Blue Jays. He was later traded to the Houston Astros as part of the deal that brought Joe Musgrove to Houston. Pérez was subsequently sent to the Los Angeles Angels in the trade for Hank Conger, leading to his MLB debut in 2015. Over three seasons with the Angels, Pérez hit .250 with a .299 OBP in 84 games. Following a stint with the Atlanta Braves, where he appeared in just eight games, he joined the Texas Rangers. However, a right ankle sprain cut short his time in Texas, keeping him out of the majors until 2023 with Oakland.
Pérez originally signed with the Athletics in 2019 and remained with the organization, impressing the coaching staff with his dedication. Though his stats don’t position him as an everyday starter, his persistence and character make him a valuable asset for any team. His ability to adapt and thrive in various roles underscores his reputation as a dependable teammate.
Even if Pérez doesn’t return to the majors in 2025, his leadership and performance in the minors could make a lasting impact on the Cubs’ organization.
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