Chas McCormick Joins Cubs After Astros Waiver Move

Chas McCormick, a key contributor to Houston’s 2022 World Series championship, is taking the next step in his career after the Astros placed him on waivers in November. Two months later, McCormick has signed a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs, signaling a fresh opportunity to prove himself at the major league level. The move comes after a challenging 2025 season in which McCormick struggled to find consistency.

McCormick’s time in Houston was highlighted by postseason heroics that left a lasting impression on fans. In the 2022 ALCS, he delivered a clutch home run in Game 1 against the Yankees’ Clarke Schmidt, followed by a pivotal go-ahead two-run shot in Game 3 off Gerrit Cole. These performances helped Houston sweep New York and advance toward another championship run.

His impact extended to the World Series as well. In Game 5 against the Philadelphia Phillies, McCormick made a remarkable outfield catch against J.T. Realmuto to preserve a narrow 3-2 lead, a play that underscored his defensive value. The Astros went on to clinch the title the following game, marking Houston’s second championship in five years.

Despite these highlights, McCormick struggled at the plate in 2025, hitting just .210 with five RBIs and 21 hits over 64 games. After several years of fluctuating production, he is now looking to rebuild his career in Chicago, where opportunity awaits.

1. Career Highlights and Development

Originally selected by the Astros in the 21st round of the 2017 MLB Draft, McCormick quickly proved his worth as a versatile outfielder capable of making game-changing plays. His postseason heroics in 2022 cemented his reputation as a clutch performer, even if his regular-season numbers have been inconsistent. McCormick’s combination of defensive skill and occasional power made him a valuable asset during Houston’s championship run. He has experience in high-pressure situations and has shown the ability to rise to the occasion on baseball’s biggest stage, traits that the Cubs hope to leverage as they bolster their roster. While McCormick’s batting average has fluctuated over the years, his work ethic and versatility have kept him in consideration for MLB roles. The Cubs’ minor league deal represents a low-risk investment for a player with a proven postseason pedigree and room for growth. With his fifth MLB season approaching, McCormick now has a chance to recapture the form that made him a World Series hero, while also carving out a consistent role on a Cubs team seeking to fill gaps left by offseason departures.

2. Cubs Opportunity and Roster Fit

The Chicago Cubs are coming off a season in which they reached the NLDS, defeating the San Diego Padres in the Wild Card series before falling to the Milwaukee Brewers. McCormick will join a roster eager to build on postseason momentum and fill the void left by the loss of Kyle Tucker to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Reporting to MLB training camp, McCormick will compete for playing time in a crowded outfield, offering experience and depth as the Cubs look to contend in the National League. His defensive versatility and postseason experience give him an edge in earning a spot on the opening day roster. For the Cubs, adding McCormick represents both a calculated gamble and a potential reward. The team gains a player capable of clutch performances, a steady glove in the outfield, and leadership forged in championship circumstances. As he enters a new chapter with the Cubs, McCormick is focused on proving that his 2025 struggles are behind him. The move north presents an opportunity to rebuild confidence and reestablish himself as a key contributor at the major league level.

3. Looking Ahead

As McCormick joins the Cubs, the focus shifts to how he can contribute immediately and potentially reclaim a larger role in the majors. With the team coming off a postseason appearance, expectations are high, and every player will be expected to perform consistently. McCormick’s experience in high-pressure games could prove invaluable as Chicago aims to take the next step in contention. Beyond on-field performance, McCormick’s presence brings veteran leadership to a clubhouse that has seen significant roster turnover. His championship experience provides younger players with a model for preparation, focus, and resilience in key moments. The minor league deal also gives McCormick a chance to demonstrate renewed consistency at the plate. Strong spring training and early-season performance could lead to a regular roster spot, putting him back in the spotlight and giving him a platform to rebuild his value in the league. Ultimately, McCormick’s journey with the Cubs is both a test and an opportunity. If he can translate past postseason success into everyday production, he could emerge as a meaningful contributor for a team poised to challenge in the National League.