In a really curious move the Cubs have extended infielder David Bote through 2024. The deal also has two options attached to it. According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, Bote will get $15 million over the next five years and also says the club options are worth $7 million and $7.6 million.
Bote broke into the major leagues last year with a .239/.319/.408 line with six home runs in 74 games. That's not the most impressive line, but he had some huge clutch hits for the Cubs, including a game-tying ninth inning home run, an Ultimate Slam, and a walk-off home run against the Reds. He has quickly become a fan favorite and since the guarantee isn't too high it's a really savvy move by the Cubs.
It's an incredibly small sample size, but Bote has gotten off to a good start in 2019 going 4-11 with a double. He's shown his defensive versatility throughout his time with the Cubs spending time at second, third, short, and the outfield. He's also logged two innings at first base.
Bote has a really great story from being an 18th round draft pick in 2012 to initially struggling in the minor leagues and almost quitting the game. He broke through in 2017 and crushed in the Arizona Fall League before making his MLB debut in 2018.
It's a really smart move by the Cubs to lock up one of their younger players. Bote isn't necessarily a franchise cornerstone, but he can prove to be a steady, and reliable plug and play player. The contract locks him up through at the least his age 31 season and could keep him in Chicago through his age 33 season.
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