Cubs Sign Infielder Matt Duffy to Minor-League Deal

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Chicago Cubs have signed veteran infielder Matt Duffy to a minor-league deal. Duffy spent time with the Giants and Rays before playing with the Rangers and Yankees last year.

Duffy is a plus-defender with experience at third base, shortstop, and second base. He primarily played third base and shortstop with the Rays and Giants. Duffy will most likely compete for a Jason Kipnis-type role as a backup second baseman with the opportunity to play more if he performs well.

Duffy’s platoon splits are rather interesting, as he is a .290 career hitter against right-handed pitching but only a .263 career hitter against lefties. As a right-handed batter, that is unusual to see.

The Cubs also show a commitment to players with high walk rates with this signing. Duffy posted an 11.9% walk rate in 2019, the highest of his career.

Duffy’s contract will be a minor-league deal that will pay him $1 million with up to $500,000 in incentives if he makes the major league roster.