Reports: INF Nicky Lopez joining Cubs on minor league deal

Field Level Media|published: 02/02/2025, 7:07pm EST

Sep 14, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox second baseman Nicky Lopez (8) hits a two-run single against the Oakland Athletics during the second inning at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

The Chicago Cubs agreed to a minor league deal with veteran infielder Nicky Lopez, according to multiple reports on Sunday.

The deal will reportedly be worth $1.5 million if Lopez makes the major league roster.

Lopez could have extra value early in the season as starting second baseman Nico Hoerner recovers from his October flexor tendon surgery on his throwing arm. Hoerner may not be ready when the Cubs open the season on March 18 in Tokyo against the Los Angeles Dodgers and also may not be ready at the beginning of April.

Lopez started 72 games at second baseman for the Chicago White Sox last season and has made 292 starts at the position during six big league seasons.

Lopez, who turns 30 on March 13, has a .248 career average with seven homers, 152 RBIs and 47 stolen bases in 668 games with the Kansas City Royals (2019-23), Atlanta Braves (2023) and White Sox.

Last season, Lopez batted .241 with one homer and 21 RBIs in 124 games for the White Sox.

--Field Level Media