Yankees Sign Former Cubs Infielder Nicky Lopez to Minor League Deal

The New York Yankees, struggling with both poor infield defense and recent losses, have signed former Cubs infielder Nicky Lopez to a minor league deal in hopes of improving their roster flexibility and defensive reliability. Lopez, a Gold Glove finalist in 2024 with the White Sox, has had a turbulent 2025 season, bouncing between the Angels, Cubs, and Diamondbacks before landing with the Yankees. Although his offensive numbers have lagged at the major league level, Lopez is recognized for his strong defensive skills and versatility across the infield, offering the Yankees a potential late-game defensive substitute or occasional starter. The Yankees' current infielders all have negative defensive metrics, and Jazz Chisholm Jr., playing out of position at third, has highlighted the team's defensive woes. While Lopez's signing is seen as a calculated risk, the Yankees are still exploring other trade options for third base as they seek to break out of their slump and contend for the postseason. Meanwhile, another former Cubs player, reliever Colten Brewer, has opted out of his deal with the Yankees and is now a free agent, potentially opening another roster spot for the club.