Teams are actively working to finalize their 40-man rosters, and the Chicago Cubs are focused on strengthening their squad to boost their chances of claiming the NL Central division title. According to sources, outfielder Travis Jankowski has reached an agreement with the Cubs. The 2023 World Series champion is expected to join the team, pending a physical.
On Friday, Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston reported, citing sources, that the Chicago Cubs are signing former Texas Rangers outfielder Travis Jankowski to a one-year deal. Jankowski, who is being brought on via a minor league contract, will also be invited to the Cubs’ major league camp. After a five-year tenure with the San Diego Padres, Jankowski became a journeyman, playing for five teams since 2019.
Following a series of inconsistent seasons, he had a strong 2023 with the World Series-winning Texas Rangers, contributing 34 runs, 65 hits, 30 RBIs, 35 walks, a .263 batting average, and a .357 on-base percentage. His performance earned him another contract with the Rangers, but he struggled in 104
Now with the Cubs, Jankowski is looking to rebound and help the team make its first postseason appearance since 2020. However, he will need to earn a spot on the 40-man roster due to his uneven offensive performance last year. Despite his batting struggles, he remained a reliable defensive presence for the Rangers over the past two seasons. The Cubs have yet to offer him an official 40-man roster spot.
Jankowski can start earning the trust as a batter back with the remainder of spring training.
