Left-hander Shota Imanaga had a challenging outing against the Texas Rangers, giving up five runs and striking out only two before being pulled after five innings. Despite his tendency to allow homers, Imanaga has been effective with runners not in scoring position. The Chicago Cubs struggled offensively, tallying just four hits, but managed to tie the game briefly with a two-out RBI single from Michael Busch. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the importance of timely hitting, as the Cubs lead MLB in two-out RBIs. Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki, and Kyle Tucker have been instrumental in their success this season, while Jon Berti has shown his value even with limited playing time by contributing crucial runs.

The Cubs’ pitching coach, Tommy Hottovy, highlighted the necessity of minimizing walks for bullpen success, a strategy that paid off as the bullpen issued no walks during the series against the Rangers. This performance signals positive momentum as the Cubs prepare for their upcoming West Coast road trip.

Jon Berti, now with the Chicago Cubs, is poised to earn a total of $3.3 million if he meets specific performance incentives as part of his contract. His base salary stands at $2 million, complemented by bonuses tied to plate appearances. Notably, Berti can earn $150,000 for 200 and 250 plate appearances, $300,000 for 400 and 450, and $400,000 for hitting the 500 mark. After an injury-plagued season, his performance this year will be critical for both his financial incentives and overall team contribution.

At 35, Berti brings extensive experience to the Cubs, having played previously for teams including the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays. Throughout his career, he has maintained a .259 batting average with significant contributions of 24 home runs and 126 RBIs over 461 games. His versatility as a utility player stands to benefit the Cubs, especially given the current roster dynamics.

Jon Berti has signed a contract with the Chicago Cubs that includes a base salary of $2 million, plus the potential to earn up to $1.3 million in performance bonuses. These bonuses kick in at various plate appearances, rewarding Berti with $150,000 for reaching 200 or 250 plate appearances, $300,000 for 400 or 450, and $400,000 for 500.

At 35 years old, Berti is looking to bounce back after a season marred by injury, specifically a left calf strain that limited him to just 25 games with the New York Yankees, where he posted a batting average of .273 along with one home run and six RBIs. His career stats reflect versatility as a utility player, showcasing a .259 batting average, 24 home runs, 126 RBIs, and 97 stolen bases across 461 games, having also played five seasons with the Miami Marlins.

The Chicago Cubs are actively reworking their roster this offseason with a focus on financial prudence. Recent trades have seen the team bolster its lineup without dipping into the free-agent market, aiming for a resurgence in the 2025 season and a strong playoff push. The Cubs' latest move involved trading infielder Luis Vazquez to the Baltimore Orioles for cash considerations, thereby reducing payroll costs. Vazquez, who made his MLB debut last season, struggled offensively but was known for his defensive capabilities. His departure opens up roster space for potential signings, including the possibility of acquiring Alex Bregman or adding depth to the bullpen.

Jon Berti, who struggled with injuries last season while with the New York Yankees, is set to join the Chicago Cubs on a one-year contract worth $2 million, with additional incentives totaling $1.3 million. Berti’s previous season was marred by a groin and calf issues that limited him to just 25 games, along with missing out on the World Series due to a hip flexor injury. At 35, he is anticipated to add depth to the Cubs' infield, which already features Nico Hoerner and promising prospect Matt Shaw. Cubs GM Carter Hawkins emphasized the team's strategy of acquiring versatile players who can cover multiple infield positions.

Berti, who was traded to the Yankees from the Miami Marlins, notably led the majors in stolen bases in 2022 and has shown promise, batting .294 in 424 plate appearances last season. Following Anthony Rizzo's injury, he stepped in as a first baseman during the playoffs, despite lacking prior experience at that position in MLB. This offseason has seen significant changes in the Yankees’ lineup, with Gleyber Torres moving to the Detroit Tigers, and Paul Goldschmidt joining the Yankees to fill Rizzo's role.