Cubs to Sign Outfielder and Lefty Bat Michael Conforto

The Cubs need more depth in left-handed hitting, especially with prospective starting designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros delayed in his ramp-up due to visa issues this spring. Overnight, they agreed to sign veteran outfielder Michael Conforto to address that need, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Conforto, 32, hit just .199/.305/.333 last season with the Dodgers, though he held onto a steady enough role to collect 486 plate appearances. Formerly an All-Star-caliber corner bat, he's been diminished by injuries and no longer gets to much of his raw power, but he still has high-end bat speed and a patient approach at the plate. He would be a major defensive downgrade in either outfield corner; expect him to serve only as a DH. Even then, the extent to which he's actually used will hinge somewhat on Ballesteros's readiness.