Cubs Activate Mike Tauchman from IL, Option Alexander Canario

Sincerest apologies to those who don’t feel this is newsworthy, but the Cubs have activated Mike Tauchman after a little over a month on the shelf due to a groin injury. To make room on the active roster, they have optioned Alexander Canario back to Triple-A Iowa following three whole plate appearances during his latest cup of coffee. Tauchman was one of the Cubs’ best hitters over the first two and a half months of the season, posting a 115 wRC+ with a .741 OPS.

This does nothing to alleviate what has been a crowded outfield in Chicago this season, though Tauchman has gotten 63 plate appearances at DH and can shift around in the grass as needed. With Pete Crow-Armstrong‘s superior defense in center — his 10 defensive runs saved lead his position and rank 10th in all of MLB — Tauchman figures to see more time at the corners as needed.

Depending on how the next two weeks shake out, this could also be an audition for teams seeking a solid outfielder for the stretch run. With several options already locked in for the future and more on the way, the Cubs might benefit most by finding a new home for Tauchman with a motivated buyer.