The Cubs’ main focus this trade deadline has been pitching, but they reportedly upgraded their lineup depth as well.
The Cubs acquired utility player Willi Castro from the Twins for Double-A pitchers Ryan Gallagher, the No. 8 prospect in their system, and Sam Armstrong, the team announced Thursday.
Castro, and All-Star last year, has slashed .245/.335/.407 this season. The Cubs bench has received limited playing time this season, with a roster light on platoons. But switch-hitting Castro can play multiple infield positions as well as outfield, covering for a range of possible injury, pinch-hit and performance scenarios.
The Cubs were lacking in outfield depth in particular, after designating utility player Vidal Bruján for assignment this week.
To clear room for Castro on the 40-man roster, the Cubs put Miguel Amaya, who has been on the injured list since late May with a strained left oblique, on the 60-day IL.
