Former Angels Catcher Signs with NL Team in a Bid to Return to MLB

A Strategic Move to Strengthen the Lineup

The Chicago Cubs have signed former Los Angeles Angels catcher Carlos Pérez, aiming to bolster their roster in an effort to return to Major League Baseball (MLB) prominence. With years of professional experience, Pérez has left a mark in his career, particularly during his stint with the Angels. This article delves into Carlos Pérez’s career, the challenges he has faced, and his potential role with the Cubs.

Carlos Pérez’s Career

Carlos Pérez began his professional baseball journey in 2008 when he signed with the Toronto Blue Jays. Originally from Venezuela, Pérez quickly gained attention for his catching skills and reliable defence. After honing his craft in the Blue Jays’ system, Pérez made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2015.

Over three seasons with the Angels, Pérez appeared in 595 plate appearances, posting a batting line of.224/.267/.332.  While his offensive stats were modest, his defensive abilities behind the plate were notable. In 184 games, Pérez proved himself as a dependable player, particularly in critical defensive situations. However, 2018 turned out to be a challenging year for Pérez. Splitting time between the Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers, he managed just a -4 wRC+ in 75 plate appearances across 28 games—a significant setback in his career.

A Turnaround and Renewed Opportunities

After his tough 2018 season, Pérez moved between the Baltimore Orioles, Oakland Athletics, and Colorado Rockies organizations. These transitions were difficult, but Pérez worked tirelessly to carve out a new path in his career. In 2023, Pérez found a pivotal role as the backup catcher for the Athletics following Shea Langeliers’ debut. The 2023 season marked Pérez’s best performance to date. In 68 games, he recorded a.226/.293/.357 batting line.

Though his wRC+ was 83—slightly below the league average—Pérez showcased his value as a reliable backup. His contributions provided stability to the catcher position for the Athletics. Despite signing a minor league contract with Oakland for the 2023 season, Pérez did not make their major league roster this year. However, he excelled in Triple-A, posting a.260/.344/.544 line over 112 games with 27 home runs and 27 doubles. His performance attracted attention from the Chicago Cubs, who quickly signed him to a minor league deal.

Future with the Chicago Cubs: A Key Role in the Team’s Roster

While the Cubs already have Carson Kelly and Miguel Amaya as their primary catchers, Carlos Pérez offers additional depth and reliability. With his solid defence and extensive experience, Pérez could be a crucial backup option, ready to step up when needed. His presence could be especially valuable in managing injuries or implementing tactical changes during games. Joining the Cubs presents Pérez with an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and prove his capabilities. After overcoming numerous obstacles in his career, this move could be a turning point for him to regain his status as a trusted catcher in the MLB.

A Career Filled with Challenges and Resilience

Carlos Pérez’s baseball journey has been marked by hurdles—from struggles during his time with the Angels to his persistent search for opportunities across various organizations. However, his perseverance and skills keep him in contention for a significant role in MLB. Signing with the Cubs represents a fresh chapter for Pérez, offering a chance to contribute to the team’s lineup and become an integral part of their campaign. Fans will be closely watching his journey, hoping to see Carlos Pérez reclaim his spot among the MLB’s reliable catchers.