MESA, Ariz. — Michael Conforto begins his journey with the Chicago Cubs this spring driven by a mixed yet powerful motivation following his first World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. Despite securing a title, Conforto’s year was marked by struggles and a lack of playoff participation, fueling his resolve to prove himself anew with the Cubs after signing a minor-league contract.
From 2023’s Ups and Downs to Renewed Drive in Chicago
Conforto described his 2023 season with the Dodgers as a “crazy roller-coaster ride of emotion,” where winning the championship came with conflicting feelings since he did not appear in any postseason games. This experience left him with a sense of pride yet a lingering feeling that he hadn’t fully earned the victory. He shared,
“To achieve that dream but also not be on the roster through the playoffs — super bittersweet, super conflicting feeling,”
adding,
“Honestly felt like I didn’t earn it in a way, but still proud of that group of guys, proud of my ability to continue to be a good teammate and still uplift guys and show up in less ways than I wanted to, but I do still feel like I was a big part of it.”
The mixed emotions sparked a fresh motivation. Conforto said,
“But it leaves you hungry. It leaves you motivated, something I had to wrestle with through the offseason. … Every day you’re just thinking about that, and that’s a new fire to get you going and get you out of bed and get you working hard.”
Why Conforto Chose the Cubs: Culture, Opportunity, and Familiarity
During free agency, Conforto sought a team where he could contribute and return to playoff contention, valuing an organization known for treating players and their families well. His positive impressions of the Cubs, combined with enjoyable experiences playing at Wrigley Field and frequent road trips to Chicago, influenced his decision to accept the Cubs’ minor-league invitation despite roster uncertainties.
Reflecting on his choice, Conforto said simply,
“It ended up feeling like, in my gut, it’s what I wanted to do.”
At 33 years old, entering his fourth free agency, he is eager to regain a consistent role and help the Cubs contend.
Managerial Transparency Sets Expectations for Playing Time
Upon meeting with Cubs manager Craig Counsell, Conforto was candidly informed about the current crowded outfield situation. Counsell emphasized the presence of three outfielders expected to receive substantial playing time. Conforto acknowledged the challenge but remains confident he can showcase his abilities, earn playing time, and contribute meaningfully to the team’s success this spring.
Regarding the deal, Conforto remarked,
“Obviously as a free agent, you want the guarantee, you want the roster spot, and when it came down to that not being an option for me and taking this deal with the Cubs, it was an exciting moment. Like, I didn’t really expect it, but it felt good to have that new perspective and it felt exciting and new again. I was like, dude, I feel like I’m a prospect. I’ve got to come out here and really work and be motivated.”
Opening for Conforto Grows With Injury to Veteran Tyler Austin
A path for Conforto to make the major-league roster became more plausible after veteran infielder Tyler Austin underwent patellar tendon surgery and is expected to be sidelined for months. Austin was expected to be a key bench player, creating a potential opening for a seasoned player like Conforto, who brings valuable big-league experience to the Cubs’ roster.
However, the Cubs will be looking for a version of Conforto closer to his stronger eight-season tenure, when he maintained a .251 batting average with a .348 on-base percentage and 120 OPS+, rather than his less productive stretch with the Dodgers last year marked by a .199 average and .305 OBP. Manager Counsell pointed out,
“He had a rough year last year, but he’s been a really good player.”
Efforts to Rebuild and Refine His Game This Offseason
Conforto reflected on losing discipline in his routine and attempting in-season mechanical adjustments last year, which contributed to his struggles. To reset, he reconnected with a friend from Oregon State for offseason work and later linked up with former All-Star Howie Kendrick. Kendrick assisted Conforto in refining his swing mechanics, especially focusing on his lower body and legs, helping him simplify and regain his hitting form.
Conforto said,
“Really just kept it simple. I wanted to get back to me, kind of find myself again, and I feel great.”
This preparation laid the foundation for what he hopes will be a rebound campaign with the Cubs.
Confidence in His Ability to Contribute and Outlook for the Season Ahead
Despite last season’s difficulties, Conforto remains close to the level of production he achieved with the Giants before joining the Dodgers in 2024, when he posted a 115 OPS+ with 27 doubles and 20 home runs. He believes the necessary skills are still within reach and emphasized his eagerness for spring training and the season.
He expressed optimism, saying,
“It definitely feels like it’s right there, I just have to hone the skills and get the reps. I was itching to get into a camp. Once games start, it’s really hard to sit on the sidelines, so we’re starting from a much better spot physically and mentally. Just show up every day, do what I can and have a great attitude and see what happens.”
Conforto embraced a liberated mindset for this comeback, stating,
“There’s something freeing, nothing to lose, everything to gain. Go out there and be you and do your best.”
What This Means for the Chicago Cubs
Michael Conforto’s addition to the Cubs presents a hopeful opportunity for both the player and the team. Conforto’s hunger for postseason success and his renewed confidence could provide depth and experience to a competitive Cubs squad. With a potential roster opening due to injury and a motivated mindset to recapture his earlier success, Conforto’s presence at spring training adds a compelling storyline to Chicago’s pursuit of revival in the National League.
How Conforto’s comeback unfolds will be watched closely by fans and analysts alike, as he strives to translate his offseason work into on-field impact, aiming to contribute meaningfully in a team committed to reclaiming championship contention.
