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In the 2023 season, at the age of 33, Cooper had a batting average of .251, an on-base percentage of .304, and a slugging percentage of .419, hitting 17 home runs in a total of 457 plate appearances for both the Marlins and Padres. This resulted in a 96 wRC+. While Cooper did make solid contact, his strikeout and walk rates were lower than the league average. His performance improved after being traded to San Diego during the season, marking the end of his six-year tenure as a regular player for Miami.

During the offseason, there were rumors that the Brewers and Red Sox were both interested in acquiring Cooper. However, the Brewers’ signing of Rhys Hoskins seemed to eliminate the possibility of Cooper joining their team. The Red Sox also expressed interest in Cooper, but it was contingent on their preferred player, Adam Duvall, not signing with them. This could potentially lead to the Red Sox increasing their offer to Duvall now that Cooper is no longer an option.

The Chicago Cubs have officially added Garrett Cooper, a seasoned first baseman, to their team. According to Craig Mish of the Miami Herald (X link), Cooper has signed a minor league contract and will be invited to join the Cubs for their major league spring training.

Last season, Cooper had a significant difference in performance depending on the pitcher’s handedness. Against left-handed pitchers, he had an OPS of .904, while against right-handed pitchers, his OPS was only .666. Throughout his career, Cooper has generally performed better against lefties, but he has also had respectable numbers against righties, except for last season and the shortened 2020 season.

The Cubs are taking a low-risk approach by giving Cooper a minor league deal. Both parties have the option to end the agreement before Spring Training ends if the Cubs don’t see a spot for Cooper on their Opening Day roster. It’s unexpected that Cooper didn’t receive a guaranteed contract, but this reflects the tough market for first base-only players in their 30’s. Additionally, Cooper’s performance in the previous season may have been a factor in teams’ decisions.

Unfortunately, Cooper had a tough season leading up to his free agency. Despite having a strong 117 wRC+ (39 home runs and a .274/.350/.444 slash line) over 1273 plate appearances for the Marlins from 2019-22 and being named an All-Star in 2022, he was unable to maintain his performance. Throughout his career, injuries have been a constant issue for Cooper and this year, ironically, he struggled during his healthiest season. Aside from a brief 10-day stint on the injured list due to an inner ear infection, Cooper was able to remain on the field. However, in 2023, he saw a decrease in playing time due to his lack of productivity against right-handed pitching.

The signing of Cody Bellinger today may seem like an odd fit for the Cubs, who already have a surplus of right-handed hitters. However, with Michael Busch, a lefty, expected to start at first base and limited experience in the MLB, the addition of Cooper provides depth for potential platooning if Bellinger spends more time in center field than at first base. With Christopher Morel potentially taking over at third base, there is uncertainty about the designated hitter position. While Cooper has experience playing right field, he will likely stick to first base or designated hitter duties as he has not played in the outfield since 2021.