MLB trade rumors: Chicago Cubs could sign former $30.25 million San Francisco Giants star as a backup for Michael Busch and Moises Ballesteros

The Chicago Cubs could add veteran infielder Wilmer Flores on a short-term deal before the 2026 season. The move would not involve a trade since Flores is a free agent. Chicago would be signing him mainly to provide right-handed depth behind first baseman Michael Busch.

(according to FanSided's Chris Landers)The team also wants to protect the development of Moisés Ballesteros. The young hitter is expected to split time between catcher and designated hitter this season. Adding Flores would allow the Cubs to manage those roles without forcing Ballesteros into heavy first-base duty.

Why Wilmer Flores fits the Chicago Cubs roster in 2026

Wilmer Flores became a free agent after the 2025 season when his time with the San Francisco Giants ended.

He finished that year with a .241 batting average, 16 home runs, 71 RBI, and a .686 OPS in 419 at-bats.Over 13 major league seasons, Flores has produced a .259 batting average with 169 home runs and 603 RBI. His career profile is consistent: steady contact, moderate power, and the ability to hit both left-handed and right-handed pitching.Chicago plans to use Busch as its everyday first baseman in 2026. Ballesteros is expected to rotate between catching and DH while continuing his development behind the plate.

Recent spring lineups show Busch locked in at first while Ballesteros appears either at catcher or DH.The Cubs originally expected Tyler Austin to serve as the right-handed complement at first base. Austin required knee surgery and is expected to miss several months, leaving the club without that backup option. Flores fits that role.

How the signing would likely work

Because Wilmer Flores is a free agent, the Chicago Cubs would only need to offer a contract.

A one-year major league deal worth a few million dollars would likely be enough.Chicago would open a roster spot by removing a depth player from the 40-man roster or optioning someone with remaining minor league eligibility.

Flores would mainly serve as the right-handed backup at first base. He could also start at DH against left-handed pitching and provide emergency coverage on the corner infield.Flores has reportedly been waiting for a guaranteed major league deal rather than accepting a minor league contract.

Chicago could offer a clear bench role and a path to 250-350 plate appearances during the season.

Offensive production that supports the fit

Wilmer Flores - 2025 and Career Hitting

Flores’ 2025 numbers show modest overall production but steady power. He hit 16 home runs and drove in 71 runs despite playing in a pitcher-friendly home park.His career numbers show similar output year after year. He provides a reliable right-handed bat rather than star-level offense.

How Wilmer Flores fits into the Chicago Cubs lineup structure

Key Cubs 2026 Role Snapshot

In this lineup structure, Flores would mostly come off the bench.

He would back up Busch at first base and take occasional DH starts against left-handed pitching.This also allows Ballesteros to focus on catching and DH rather than learning first base full time.

Age and durability

Wilmer Flores will play the 2026 season at age 34. Players at that age are usually signed for short contracts, especially when they fill part-time roles.He has played more than 130 games in several seasons and has handled heavy workloads in the past.

Flores dealt with right knee tendinitis in 2024 but played the full 2025 season without a major injured list stint.Also read: MLB trade rumors: San Francisco Giants could target $38.5 million Boston Red Sox star to bolster opening rotation and improve title oddsFor the Chicago Cubs, this type of signing would address a roster gap without affecting the long-term plan. Flores adds experience and right-handed power while giving the team insurance behind Busch and flexibility with Ballesteros’ role.