Nick Madrigal
YEARTEAMGABRHitsRBIDTHRBBSOSBCSEAVGOBPSLUG
2021Flyers4718718592711004232140.3160.3500.374
2022Flyers208392564104100020.3010.3410.373
2023Flyers207081453001102000.2000.2220.243
2024Flyers723255301010000.2170.2170.478
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Feb 28 2025Madrigal will likely miss the entire season after surgery to repair a fractured left shoulder, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal suffered the injury during a Grapefruit League contest Sunday when he landed on the shoulder following an off-balance throw. He's already been placed on the 60-day injured list and his tenure with the Mets could be over before it starts, as Madrigal will be a free agent next offseason.
Feb 24 2025Madrigal (shoulder) was placed on the 60-day injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was reported earlier in the day that Madrigal is expected to miss a significant period of time recovering from a fractured left shoulder, so this transaction is purely procedural. The move opens up a spot on the 40-man roster for Alexander Canario, who was acquired from the Cubs in exchange for cash considerations Monday.
Feb 23 2025Madrigal suffered a dislocated left shoulder during Sunday's spring game and is scheduled to undergo an MRI, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The infielder started at shortstop and sustained the injury during the first inning when he landed on the shoulder after charging a groundball and making an off-balance throw to first base. The severity of the injury isn't yet known as he awaits medical imaging, but Madrigal's availability for the start of the regular season is now in jeopardy.
Feb 11 2025Madrigal will see some action at shortstop this spring, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal played some shortstop in college at Oregon State, but his only pro experience at the position came in 2018 when he was used there for one game in rookie ball. However, if Luisangel Acuna doesn't make the Mets' Opening Day roster, the club would be without a true backup shortstop behind Francisco Lindor. Because Lindor plays so much, the Mets might be able to get away with Madrigal as his backup even if the latter is stretched there defensively.
Jan 31 2025The Mets signed Madrigal to a one-year, $1.35 million contract Friday, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He can earn an additional $500,000 in incentives. Madrigal has failed to pan out as a former No. 4 overall pick, particularly during his time with the Cubs where he managed just a .251/.304/.312 slash line over parts of three seasons. Injuries have been a problem, too, with a fractured hand most recently costing him significant time in 2024. Madrigal can play second and third base and will attempt to win a reserve role in New York.
Nov 22 2024The Cubs non-tendered Madrigal on Friday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The No. 4 overall pick of the 2018 MLB Draft, Madrigal will enter free agency for the first time in his professional career. Injuries have plagued the 27-year-old infielder, and in 2024 he was limited to just 51 regular-season games after fracturing his left hand in early June while playing for Triple-A Iowa. Madrigal finished with a slash line of .221/.280/.256 with 10 RBI over 94 major-league plate appearances, and he'll look to catch on with a team in need of depth in the infield.
Sep 1 2024The Cubs recalled Madrigal (hand) from Triple-A Iowa and placed him on the 60-day injured list Sunday, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After he was optioned to Iowa on June 2, Madrigal fractured his left hand three days later when he was hit by a pitch and was placed on the Triple-A club's injured list a day later. He hasn't played since and had continued to occupy a spot on the Cubs' 40-man roster, but Madrigal's move to the big club's 60-day IL will clear room for lefty Jordan Wicks (oblique), who will return from the 60-day IL to start Sunday's game in Washington. Madrigal is without a clear timeline to return to game action at Triple-A.
Jun 6 2024Madrigal suffered a fractured left hand when he was hit by a pitch during a game with Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday, Tommy Birch of the Des Moines Register reports. He was placed on the 7-day injured list. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was playing in his first game with Iowa after being optioned there earlier this week. It's not clear at this juncture how much time he might miss, but he certainly he won't be an option to rejoin the Cubs for several weeks.
Jun 2 2024Madrigal was optioned to Triple-A Iowa on Sunday, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Networkreports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old saw limited playing time down the stretch in May and is being sent down in favor of David Bote, who had his contract selected Sunday. Madrigal has appeared in 51 games for the Cubs this season and has a .221/.280/.256 slash line in 94 plate appearances.
May 23 2024Madrigal is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal had started at second base or third base in seven of the past eight games, but his opportunities to pick up playing time in the infield are likely to be more limited moving forward after shortstop Dansby Swanson and second baseman Nico Hoerner both recently returned from injuries. The 27-year-old hasn't done much with the opportunities he's received with the Cubs this season, slashing .213/.276/.250 with no home runs and one stolen base across 87 plate appearances.
May 15 2024Madrigal went 3-for-4 in Wednesday's 7-1 win over Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three hits were singles as Madrigal earned his fourth multi-hit effort in 39 contests this season. The infielder is slashing .234/.300/.281 with no home runs, nine RBI, four runs scored and one stolen base over 69 plate appearances. Madrigal had been limited to a bench role for much of the season, but he's receiving more playing time while Dansby Swanson (knee) is on the injured list and Nico Hoerner (hamstring) is out of the lineup.
Apr 10 2024Madrigal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will take a seat for the fourth consecutive game, with each of those absences coming against right-handed pitchers. At least for the time being, Mike Tauchman appears to have edged ahead of Madrigal for the final spot in the Cubs' regular lineup versus righties.
Apr 7 2024Madrigal is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started the first two games versus Los Angeles and went 2-for-6 with an RBI and a run scored. Christopher Morel will man the hot corner while Mike Tauchman receives a turn in the outfield Sunday.
Apr 2 2024Madrigal went 2-for-5 with a double and three RBI in Tuesday's 12-2 win over the Rockies. He also stole a base. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal batted eighth but got in on the fun as the whole Chicago lineup rolled. The 27-year-old started at third base in this one, though he's still behind Christopher Morel on the depth chart and is serving more as a utility player at this point. Madrigal will need more regular playing time to really take off as a fantasy asset this season.
Apr 1 2024Madrigal is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is on the bench for the third consecutive game, with two of his absences from the lineup coming against right-handed pitchers and one coming versus a lefty. After drawing the Opening Day nod at third base and going 1-for-3 with a double in a 4-3 loss to the Rangers, Madrigal has since ceded the hot corner to Christopher Morel. Morel had been expected to see most of his starts at designated hitter this season, but the Cubs now appear inclined to take a rotational approach to that spot in the lineup while lefty-hitting outfielder Mike Tauchman essentially replaces Madrigal when Chicago faces right-handed pitching.
Mar 31 2024Madrigal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game at Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the second straight game on the bench for Madrigal after starting at third base Opening Day. Christopher Morel will receive another start at third base while Ian Happ serves as the designated hitter.
Mar 30 2024Madrigal isn't in the Cubs' lineup for Saturday's game versus Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started at third base for Chicago on Opening Day, but he will get a day off Saturday to allow Christopher Morel to play at the hot corner while Garrett Cooper serves as the DH.
Mar 28 2024Madrigal will start at third base and bat eighth in Thursday's season opener versus the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was a question mark for Opening Day not long ago due to a hamstring injury, but he's avoided an injured list stint and is in the Cubs' Opening Day lineup. Presumed third baseman Christopher Morel is starting at designated hitter.
Mar 25 2024Madrigal (hamstring) is expected to avoid the injured list and be part of the Cubs' Opening Day roster, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal returned to Cactus League play Sunday after missing three weeks with a right hamstring strain. He'll finish the spring with just 19 plate appearances, but evidently the Cubs have deemed that sufficient. The 27-year-old is a candidate for some playing time at third base for the Cubs.
Mar 22 2024The Cubs have not yet determined whether Madrigal (hamstring) will begin the season on the injured list, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal has been sidelined for most of this month with a right hamstring strain, but he's doing better and is likely to play in a minor-league game Sunday. It sounds like it's basically a coin flip as to whether he'll require an IL stint.
Mar 13 2024Madrigal (hamstring) had resumed some baseball activity, including taking batting practice, Cubs.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal has been sidelined since March 4 due to the right hamstring strain, but he seems to be making progress. The utility player is expected to be back later this month, and with the Cubs beginning their year March 28 in Texas, he may not have to miss any regular season action. The team will likely be cautious with Madrigal for the rest of the spring schedule, however.
Mar 7 2024Madrigal was diagnosed with a mild right hamstring strain Thursday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cubs manager Craig Counsell said Madrigal will be re-evaluated in a week, at which point the team will have a better idea of when Madrigal will be able to return to game action. The 27-year-old infielder landed on the injured list twice last season due to problems with his hamstring, and Madrigal's most recent tweak indicates that it may remain a recurring problem this year as well.
Mar 6 2024Madrigal underwent a precautionary MRI on his right hamstring Tuesday, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal exited Monday's game versus the Padres with what was deemed a leg cramp, but the Cubs have now specified that he's dealing with a hamstring-related concern. The Cubs are optimistic the injury isn't serious but wanted to put Madrigal through imaging just to be safe, particularly with his history of leg problems. Madrigal is competing for starts at the hot corner for the Cubs.
Mar 4 2024Madrigal was pulled from Monday's game against the Padres with a right leg cramp, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal grounded out in his lone plate appearance before exiting. Leg problems have plagued the 26-year-old throughout his career, so hopefully this is indeed just a cramp and it's a day-to-day situation. Madrigal is competing for playing time at third base for the Cubs.
Feb 28 2024Madrigal may have to settle for a bench role with Christopher Morel seemingly in line to start most days at third base, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The versatile Morel has been focusing on the hot corner in camp, and it seems like he will emerge as the top option there. With Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson locked in up the middle, Madrigal seems destined for a utility role off the bench, which would cap his fantasy upside for the time being. Things could change if one of those other players suffers an injury.
Jan 11 2024The Cubs and Madrigal avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $1.8 million contract Thursday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal receives a salary bump in what was his second year of arbitration eligibility. The infielder slashed .263/.311/.352 for the Cubs in 2023 and is in the mix for starts at third base again for the upcoming season.
Oct 19 2023Madrigal (hamstring) will head into the offseason without any restrictions, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal suffered a right hamstring strain in mid-September and was shifted to the 60-day injured list late in the season. He appears to be healed up now, though, or at least will be by the time he begins his offseason workout routine. Madrigal made 68 starts -- 61 at third base -- for the Cubs this season, collecting a .663 OPS with two homers. He'll have a shot to compete for playing time again in 2024, although the team is surely hoping to have a better option for the hot corner.
Sep 19 2023Madrigal was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a right hamstring strain, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal strained his hamstring in Saturday's loss to the Diamondbacks and will be sidelined until at least next Wednesday. Christopher Morel is covering third base Tuesday against the Pirates and the Cubs have also recalled Jared Young from Triple-A Iowa to provide some extra infield depth.
Sep 17 2023Madrigal is absent from the lineup Sunday versus the Diamondbacks with a hamstring injury, Maddie Lee of The Sun Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal exited Saturday's 7-6 extra-innings loss to Arizona early with an apparent hamstring injury. Manager David Ross said Sunday that "it was just some cramping and tightness" and that Madrigal is not expected to require a stint on the injured list. The 26-year-old can be considered day-to-day for the time being with the Cubs having a day off Monday.
Sep 7 2023Madrigal is not in the lineup Thursday versus the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jeimer Candelario will start at third base as Christopher Morel takes a turn in the DH role. Madrigal is slashing just .172/.200/.207 over his last 30 plate appearances for the Cubs and his season OPS has fallen to .679.
Sep 3 2023Madrigal is starting at third base and batting eighth in Sunday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal received a breather Saturday amid a 1-for-12 slump, but he'll return to the lineup Sunday. The infielder is still batting a solid .270 this season, though he's mostly a contact hitter with only two home runs through 79 games.
Sep 2 2023Madrigal isn't in the Cubs' lineup Saturday against the Reds, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will get a breather Saturday after going just 1-for-12 across his last five games. Jeimer Candelario will man third base in Madrigal's absence, allowing Christopher Morel to serve as the Cubs' DH.
Sep 1 2023Madrigal is not in the starting lineup for Game 2 of Friday's doubleheader with the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will take a seat after he went 1-for-3 with a walk in Chicago's 6-2 victory in Friday's matinee. Jeimer Candelario will slot in at third base while Christopher Morel enters the lineup at designated hitter and bat's ninth in the nightcap.
Aug 29 2023Madrigal is not in the lineup Tuesday versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jeimer Candelario will start at third base and bat seventh. Madrigal went 0-for-3 in the Cubs' loss to Milwaukee on Monday and is slashing just .233/.233/.372 over his last 45 plate appearances dating back to Aug. 6.
Aug 27 2023Madrigal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal had started each of the past four contests, going 5-for-14 with a run and an RBI while extending his hitting streak to six games. Unless he's used off the bench Sunday, the streak will be put on hold, but Madrigal appears to be moving into the everyday spot in the lineup that had belonged to Christopher Morel. The slumping Morel will be riding pine along with Madrigal on Sunday, marking Morel's fourth benching in the past five contests.
Aug 16 2023Madrigal hit a pinch-hit solo home run in Wednesday's 4-3 win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal pinch hit for Tucker Barnhart to lead off the bottom of the eighth inning, and the team was probably just hoping he reached base. However, the infielder managed only his second home run of the season, cutting the deficit to 3-1 as the Cubs mounted a late comeback. Despite the heroics, Madrigal's fantasy stock has taken a hit lately, with new acquisition Jeimer Candelario starting to see more time at third when Chicago uses Cody Bellinger at first. It's a crowded playing time situation that figures to leave Madrigal on the bench more often than not in the near future.
Aug 11 2023Madrigal is out of the lineup Friday against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was omitted from the starting lineup for the first time since Aug. 2. In the seven games since, the infielder is 5-for-23 with zero extra-base hits. With Seiya Suzuki getting less playing time recently, Madrigal has seen more time on the field, but with Suzuki coming off a great game and starting Friday against righty Jose Berrios, Madrigal may be in danger of seeing less playing time.
Aug 9 2023Madrigal is out of the lineup Wednesday against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jeimer Candelario is playing third base and Patrick Wisdom will cover first base. Nico Hoerner is at second. Madrigal has produced three multi-hit games since returning July 29 from a right hamstring strain, but he carries an overall .686 OPS with one homer and eight steals across 207 plate appearances this year.
Aug 6 2023Madrigal will start at third base and bat eighth Sunday against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will take a four-game hitting streak into Sunday's contest as he picks up his fourth consecutive start. Though Madrigal's lack of power (one home run) and modest speed (eight stolen bases in 10 attempts) limit his fantasy ceiling, he should be a plus source of batting average while he's continuing to get regular playing time. He appears to have at least temporarily seized hold of a steady role at the expense of Seiya Suzuki, who is on the bench for a fourth consecutive matchup against a right-handed starting pitcher.
Aug 2 2023Madrigal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal had started at third base in each of the Cubs' last four games, but he appears destined to move into more of a part-time role following Tuesday's acquisition of Jeimer Candelario. Though manager David Ross acknowledged that Candelario will see plenty of time at first base, his arrival could create a domino effect that results in Christopher Morel seeing most of the starts at third base.
Jul 30 2023Madrigal (hamstring) went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Saturday's win over the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal returned to the lineup after missing a little more than three weeks with a hamstring strain. He started at third and batted ninth in his first game back. Madrigal and Patrick Wisdom should compete for time at the hot corner moving forward, with the former a better contact hitter but the latter providing more power potential. Madrigal could have some sneaky fantasy value if he takes over on a more regular basis.
Jul 29 2023The Cubs reinstated Madrigal (hamstring) from the 10-day injured list Saturday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal landed on the injured list July 4 with a strained right hamstring and will now return to Chicago after a five-game rehab assignment. The 26-year-old infielder went 5-for-18 with four runs scored during his rehab assignment and figures to return as the Cubs' primary third baseman. Miles Mastrobuoni was optioned to Triple-A Iowa in a corresponding move.
Jul 25 2023Madrigal (hamstring) will resume his rehab assignment Tuesday with Triple-A Iowa, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was scratched from Iowa's lineup Sunday due to lower-body fatigue, but it won't be much of a setback as he nears his return to the Cubs' active roster. The infielder has been on the shelf since July 4 due to a right hamstring strain.
Jul 23 2023Madrigal (hamstring) was scratched from the lineup for Triple-A Iowa on Sunday due to "general lower body fatigue," Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lower-body issue doesn't sound like anything particularly worrisome, though it'll presumably end up pushing back Madrigal's return from the 10-day injured list while he works his way back from a strained right hamstring. Whenever Madrigal is cleared to rejoin the Cubs, he'll likely be ticketed for a reserve role now that Chicago has all its other key position players healthy again.
Jul 20 2023Madrigal (hamstring) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa on Friday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since landing on the injured list July 4 with a strained right hamstring, Madrigal has recently began making progress toward a return. He resumed hitting and fielding Monday, ran the bases Wednesday and is now slated to get back into game action. It's unlikely Madrigal returns before the end of Chicago's weekend series against the Cardinals, but he could return ahead of the Cubs' upcoming series with the White Sox.
Jul 19 2023Madrigal (hamstring) is scheduled to run the bases Wednesday, Tim Stebbins of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That will be a big step forward in his recovery from the right hamstring strain that sent him to the 10-day injured list July 4. It would appear that Madrigal could be back on the Cubs' active roster as soon as this weekend.
Jul 17 2023Madrigal (hamstring) took batting practice Monday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He fielded some grounders, as well. Madrigal has been on the shelf for nearly all of July with a right hamstring strain but appears to be making progress. It's not clear whether he will require a rehab assignment before returning.
Jul 5 2023Madrigal underwent imaging scans Wednesday which revealed a moderate right hamstring strain, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday and won't be cleared to resume baseball activities until the strain is fully healed. He's eligible to be activated right after the All-Star break, but it sounds like his absence could extend into late July. Christopher Morel and Patrick Wisdom are expected to share playing time at third base for the Cubs in the meantime.
Jul 4 2023The Cubs placed Madrigal on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a right hamstring strain, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal suffered the injury in Monday's series opener against the Brewers and will be sidelined through at least the end of the All-Star break. Christopher Morel is starting at third base Tuesday and Patrick Wisdom (wrist) is back from the IL to help out at the hot corner.
Jul 3 2023Madrigal was lifted ahead of the bottom of the fourth inning of Monday's game against the Brewers due to right hamstring tightness, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports. He went 1-for-2 with a double, two RBI and a run prior to his departure. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal appeared to suffer the injury in question while running into a side wall while pursing a fly ball in the bottom of the third. Though he was able to finish out that inning, Madrigal remained on the bench when the Cubs went out for defense in the fourth. The Cubs may send Madrigal in for further tests to confirm the severity of his injury, but it wouldn't be surprising if a trip to the 10-day injured list was in the forecast for the 26-year-old.
Jul 2 2023Madrigal is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Guardians, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started the past nine games and will receive a day off after he posted a .988 OPS during that stretch. Christopher Morel will man the hot corner while Trey Mancini serves as the designated hitter.
Jul 1 2023Madrigal went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and an additional run scored in Friday's 10-1 victory over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal's solo shot in the sixth marked his first home run as a Cub and third of his career. The undersized infielder made the transition to third base this year but got off to a slow start offensively and was sent to Triple-A at the end of May to get right, which appears to have worked out as he's slashing .375/.444/.521 over his last 15 games. Patrick Wisdom (wrist) is currently on a rehab assignment at Triple-A, and his impending return would presumably steal at-bats away from Madrigal, but it'll be difficult for manager David Ross to keep Madrigal's contact bat out of the lineup moving forward, especially if he's still producing at a high level.
Jun 28 2023Madrigal went 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Wednesday's loss to the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Patrick Wisdom (wrist) on the injured list, Madrigal continues to see regular playing time at third base. This was his sixth straight start at the hot corner, and he's recorded hits in all of those contests. Wisdom offers more power potential when he's able to return, but Madrigal is the better contact hitter and may be doing enough to hold onto the starting job.
Jun 19 2023Madrigal is not in the starting lineup Monday versus Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will take a seat after he went 0-for-2 with a strikeout and a stolen base in Sunday's 6-3 loss to the Orioles. Miles Mastrobuoni will draw the start at third base and bat ninth in the series opener with the Pirates.
Jun 18 2023Madrigal is starting at third base and batting ninth in Sunday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal sat Saturday with Miles Mastrobuoni getting the nod at the hot corner, but the former will take over Sunday. Patrick Wisdom (wrist) hit the injured list Saturday, so there is playing time available at third base, and Madrigal should be the top option there most days ahead of Mastrobuoni.
Jun 17 2023Madrigal isn't in the Cubs' lineup for Saturday's game against Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is 5-for-15 with two RBI over his last five games, and he will get a day to rest Saturday. While Madrigal sits out, Miles Mastrobuoni will take over at third base and bat ninth.
Jun 14 2023Madrigal is starting at third base and batting ninth in Wednesday's game against the Pirates, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's Madrigal's fourth straight start at third base and fifth straight start overall, as he appears to have emerged as Cubs manager David Ross' preferred option at the hot corner for the time being. Madrigal hasn't exactly earned it with his bat, as he has a .584 OPS on the season and a .564 OPS in four games since his recall.
Jun 11 2023Madrigal will start at third base and bat ninth in Sunday's game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll pick up a third consecutive start despite having gotten on base at a .286 clip through his first two contests since being promoted from Triple-A Iowa on Friday. The Cubs have an opening in the lineup at the moment while Seiya Suzuki (undisclosed) tends to a minor injury, but once Suzuki is healthy, Madrigal will have to battle Trey Mancini or Christopher Morel for one spot in Chicago's everyday lineup.
Jun 9 2023Chicago recalled Madrigal from Triple-A Iowa on Friday, Bruce Levine of 670TheScore.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is leading off and playing second base versus the Giants on Friday, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. Madrigal struggled with a .247/.286/.301 slash in 98 plate appearances with the Cubs before being optioned to Iowa near the end of May, but he scorched Triple-A pitching with a .488 average and 1.434 OPS in 41 at-bats. Madrigal should see some time at third base and second base while he's a member of the 26-man active roster.
May 20 2023Madrigal went 2-for-4 with a walk, two RBI and two runs scored in Friday's 10-1 win over the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was solid from the No. 9 spot in the lineup as the Cubs got production up and down the lineup. He started at third base in this one, and Chicago should continue to work in both Madrigal and Patrick Wisdom at the hot corner, while Christopher Morel could be an option there at times as well. The crowded situation puts a cap on Madrigal's fantasy upside, though he's a capable performer when he starts.
May 17 2023Madrigal is not in the starting lineup Wednesday at Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Miles Mastrobuoni will make a second straight start at second base as the Cubs shuffle different names into the mix with Nico Hoerner (hamstring) on the IL. Christopher Morel is playing center field and batting leadoff while Cody Bellinger nurses a bruised knee. Patrick Wisdom is at third base.
May 15 2023Madrigal will start at second base and bat ninth in Monday's game against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since Nico Hoerner landed on the injured list Friday with the left hamstring strain that had kept him out of the lineup since last Tuesday, Madrigal has settled in as the primary option at the keystone. He'll stick in the lineup for the fifth time in six games despite going 4-for-19 at the plate since Hoerner hit the shelf.
May 7 2023Madrigal is starting at third base and batting eighth in Sunday's game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the second straight day, Madrigal gets the start at third with Patrick Wisdom on the bench. The latter has a .590 OPS over his past 12 contests, though he does have a team-high 11 home runs. Madrigal has better contact and base-stealing skills, so it will be interesting to watch what the Cubs prioritize moving forward.
Apr 2 2023Madrigal is starting at third base and batting ninth in Sunday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That's consecutive starts for Madrigal, who faced righty Brandon Woodruff on Saturday and will see lefty Eric Lauer on Sunday. It seemed like Patrick Wisdom, who started on Opening Day, would be the top option at third base, but it's Madrigal getting the chance Sunday after also playing there Saturday, though Wisdom will start in right field. Edwin Rios should also factor in against righties moving forward, making the hot corner very fluid in Chicago.
Apr 1 2023Madrigal is starting at third base and batting eighth in Saturday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal didn't play in Thursday's opener, but he'll take over at the hot corner for Patrick Wisdom on Saturday. It appears that Madrigal, Wisdom and Edwin Rios could all share time at third base this season, which could cap the fantasy value of all three players for the time being.
Mar 3 2023Madrigal likely won't have an everyday role in 2023, though he could hit leadoff some when he does play, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal's path to an everyday role has become clouded with Dansby Swanson now in the fold and Nico Hoerner still around, though Madrigal should still rotate in at several positions. Chicago manager David Ross may choose to use Madrigal in the leadoff role from time to time, which could boost his fantasy value, at least on a part-time basis.
Jan 13 2023Madrigal and the Cubs agreed on a one-year, $1.225 million contract Friday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal and the Cubs won't have to go through arbitration anymore after striking a deal Friday. The 25-year-old struggled to stay healthy in 2022, batting .249 with seven doubles, seven RBI, 19 runs and three stolen bases over 209 at-bats in 59 games with the Cubs. With the addition of Dansby Swanson this offseason, Madrigal does not have direct path to starting in the infield, though he will likely rotate in and out of the lineup in a variety of spots including designated hitter in 2023.
Sep 27 2022Madrigal (groin) will not return this season, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Injuries have been an issue for Madrigal in all three of his big-league seasons, and this year a couple different issues limited him to only 59 games. He will finish 2022 with just a .587 OPS, but he did hit an even .300 in August -- the month in which he recorded over a third of his at-bats. Madrigal should be back at 100 percent well in advance of spring training, and he figures to get a chance to compete for a starting job at second base.
Sep 10 2022Madrigal was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right groin strain Saturday, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal exited Friday's matchup with a groin issue, and he'll be sidelined for at least a week and a half after being diagnosed with a strain. Zach McKinstry is starting at second base Saturday against the Giants and should see the majority of the playing time at the keystone during Madrigal's absence.
Sep 9 2022Madrigal left Friday's game against the Giants with right groin tightness, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal missed time with a groin strain earlier in the summer, though that was on his left side. It's unclear if his current injury will force a trip to the injured list. Zach McKinstry replaced him at second base.
Sep 8 2022Madrigal isn't starting Thursday against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started the last two games and went 2-for-9 with a double, two RBI, a steal, a walk and a strikeout. Zach McKinstry will take his place at second base and lead off.
Sep 4 2022Madrigal is out of the lineup for Sunday's game in St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will get a breather for the series finale while Zach McKinstry gets at turn at second base and as the Cubs' leadoff man. Over his past six games, Madrigal went 8-for-25 at the plate, but he produced no home runs, runs, RBI or steals during that stretch.
Aug 31 2022Madrigal isn't in the lineup Wednesday against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started the last five games and hit .300 with a double, a run and two walks across that span. Zach McKinstry will take over at second base and lead off Wednesday.
Aug 25 2022Madrigal will sit Thursday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will get a day off after he went 2-for-7 with a run scored while starting the last two contests. Zach McKinstry will slide over to second base while Nelson Velazquez enters the lineup in center field and bats eighth after some shuffling.
Aug 23 2022Madrigal is out of the lineup for the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader with the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Zach McKinstry will man second base and handle leadoff duties while Madrigal gets a breather for the early game of the twin bill. Madrigal led off in each of the Cubs' last five games, going 6-for-21 with a walk, three runs and an RBI.
Aug 20 2022Madrigal went 3-for-4 with two runs scored in Friday's 8-7 win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal gave the Cubs a spark as their leadoff hitter. The second baseman is now batting .250 this season, though he's upped that to .325 across 12 games this month, which has been his first action since June due to a groin injury. If Madrigal stays healthy, he could be primed for a good finish to the year as Chicago's primary option at the keystone and a regular leadoff hitter.
Aug 17 2022Madrigal isn't starting Wednesday against Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is resting during Wednesday's series finale after he went 1-for-9 with a double, a run and a strikeout over the last two games. Zach McKinstry will shift to the keystone while P.J. Higgins enters the lineup at first base.
Aug 14 2022Madrigal is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal racked up six hits over his last three games, but he will be held out Sunday in favor of Zach McKinstry, who is sharing the playing time at both second and third base with Madrigal and Christopher Morel.
Aug 12 2022Madrigal went 3-for-5 with an RBI and a stolen base in Thursday's 4-2 win over the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal led off for the Cubs in the Field of Dreams Game in Iowa, and the second baseman looked comfortable in the cornfield, leading all players with the three hits. The 25-year-old has taken over as the team's top option at the keystone, and he's slashing .400/.478/.450 across seven games since returning from the injured list at the beginning of August.
Aug 9 2022Madrigal is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With starts at second base in four of the past five games, Madrigal looks to be the Cubs' preferred option at the position for the moment, though he'll need to sustain a good run of health and offensive production to keep his spot atop the depth chart. Christopher Morel will get the start at the keystone Tuesday at Madrigal's expense.
Aug 8 2022Madrigal will start at second base and bat eighth in Monday's game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With David Bote having been optioned to Triple-A Iowa, Christopher Morel having been deployed in more of a utility role of late and with Zach McKinstry getting off to an 0-for-14 start to his Cubs career, Madrigal has gained traction as the team's primary option of second base since coming off the injured list last Tuesday. He'll pick up his fourth start in five games Monday.
Aug 2 2022The Cubs reinstated Madrigal (groin) from the 10-day injured list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal missed nearly two months of action with his injury, but he's ready to resume playing for the big club. Madrigal hit .385 over his last seven rehab games, though because the Cubs have numerous options at second base, it's unclear what role he will fill in the short term. Zach McKinstry will get the nod at the keystone Tuesday versus the Cardinals.
Jul 22 2022Madrigal (groin) will begin a rehab assignment Friday with Triple-A Iowa, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was shut down for nearly two weeks after aggravating his injury in a rehab game earlier this month, but he is ready to get back on field. It's not clear how many games he will play with Iowa before being deemed ready to return, but expect the Cubs to proceed with caution.
Jul 13 2022Madrigal (groin) will work on strength and volume this week, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was removed from Sunday's rehab game at Triple-A Iowa after experiencing renewed tightness in his left groin, but he'll work on strengthening exercises to begin the week. It's not yet clear when he'll be able to resume his rehab assignment, but it's possible that he'll rejoin the Cubs sometime in late July.
Jul 10 2022Madrigal was removed Sunday during his third rehab game with Triple-A Iowa after experiencing renewed tightness in his strained left groin, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will be pulled off the rehab assignment and will return to Chicago to have his injury further evaluated. Even if the setback proves to be only a minor concern, the 25-year-old will more than likely be held out through the All-Star break to get more recovery time from the injury that has kept him on the shelf since mid-June.
Jul 6 2022Madrigal (groin) will begin a minor-league rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa on Thursday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal has been on the injured list with a left groin strain since mid-June, but he's been ramping up his activity level recently. He's hit in live batting practice and participated in base running drills over the last week and will now return to game action in Iowa. The 25-year-old will likely be cleared to rejoin the Cubs after a relatively brief rehab assignment.
Jul 3 2022Madrigal (groin) is scheduled to take part in live batting practice Tuesday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The live batting practice session could mark the final hurdle that Madrigal needs to clear in his recovery from a left groin strain before he heads out on a minor-league rehab assignment. David Bote (shoulder) and Christopher Morel have been picking up most of the work at second base of late for the big club, but Madrigal should reclaim a near-everyday role in the middle infield once he's activated from the 10-day injured list.
Jul 2 2022Madrigal (groin) participated in baserunning drills Saturday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal hit in live batting practice Tuesday and took another step in his recovery by running the bases ahead of Saturday's game against the Red Sox. Although he's made good progress this week, it's not yet clear when he'll be able to return to game action.
Jun 28 2022Madrigal (groin) hit in live batting practice Tuesday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He suffered a left groin strain on June 10, and will have several other checkpoints to clear before being activated. Madrigal will have to advance to fielding and running drills and may require a rehab assignment.
Jun 15 2022The Cubs placed Madrigal on the 10-day injured list Wednesday with a left groin strain, Tim Stebbins of NBC Sports Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will head to the injured list for the second time this season after previously missing time in May due to back tightness. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2018 first-year player draft missed the entire second half of the 2021 campaign while recovering from hamstring surgery, so the Cubs have received just 115 plate appearances since he was acquired from the White Sox at last year's trade deadline. While Madrigal is on the shelf, Jonathan Villar looks to be first in line for reps at second base.
Jun 14 2022Madrigal (groin) remains on the bench Tuesday against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal exited Friday's game against the Yankees with groin tightness and hasn't played since then. He's seemingly still day-to-day, as he hasn't been placed on the injured list, but he'll sit here for the fourth straight game as Jonathan Villar remains the starter at second base.
Jun 13 2022Madrigal (groin) remains on the bench Monday against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal left Friday's game against the Yankees with groin tightness and didn't appear in either of the next two games. He was considered day-to-day as recently as Sunday, so it's possible he'll be back in action soon, but it will again be Jonathan Villar at second base Monday.
Jun 12 2022Madrigal (groin) will sit Sunday against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal left Friday's series opener with groin tightness and did not appear in Saturday's contest. He's considered day-to-day, per Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune. Jonathan Villar will handle second base Sunday.
Jun 10 2022Madrigal was removed from Friday's loss to the Yankees due to groin tightness, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started Friday's matchup and went 2-for-5 with a strikeout prior to his departure in the bottom of the 12th inning. He should tentatively be considered day-to-day, but Andrelton Simmons and Jonathan Villar are likely in line for additional playing time if Madrigal misses time.
Jun 3 2022Madrigal is not starting in Friday's game versus the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will get a day off after starting three straight games after returning from the 10-day injured list Tuesday, going 3-for-9 with two runs over those contests. Christopher Morel will get the start at second base while Rafael Ortega enters the lineup in center field and bats second Friday.
May 31 2022Madrigal (back) went 1-for-2 with a run scored in an 8-7 win Tuesday over Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal returned as a pinch hitter in the fifth inning and stayed in the game, playing second base. He singled and scored in the sixth on P.J. Higgins' home run. It was his first appearance for the Cubs since May 9. Between his stint on the injured list and his .503 OPS, Madrigal's first season on the northside of Chicago has left much to be desired. With Andrelton Simmons and Christopher Morel each receiving time at the keystone in Madrigal's absence, there's no guarantee he will receive the bulk of the playing time now that he's healthy.
May 26 2022Madrigal (back) will start a rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa on Saturday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal has been out with back tightness since May 10, but resumed on-field work Tuesday and is now set to start his rehab assignment this weekend. He'll likely appear in multiple games in Triple-A before rejoining to the big-league roster, potentially returning to the Cubs during their four-game series versus the Brewers early next week. With Andrelton Simmons now shifted over to second base, he stands to see a lesser role once Madrigal is activated from the injured list.
May 24 2022Madrigal (back) took part in hitting, fielding, running and throwing drills during an on-field workout Tuesday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Fellow injured middle infielder Nico Hoerner (ankle) also performed the same activities, as both look to be at similar spots in their respective rehab programs. Madrigal and Hoerner could both be ready to begin minor-league rehab assignments later this week before potentially returning from the 10-day injured list by the end of the month. Though both Madrigal and Hoerner handled everyday roles for the Cubs prior to hitting the shelf, the two may have to fend off Andrelton Simmons and Jonathan Villar for starts in the middle infield once they're back from the IL.
May 19 2022Madrigal (back) remains limited to rehab work since being placed on the 10-day injured list May 10, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Madrigal having yet to resume baseball activities more than a week after landing on the IL, it's clear he'll be sidelined beyond the minimum 10 days. A potential target date likely won't emerge until he's able to do at least some on-field activity. Before hitting the shelf, Madrigal was offering little to get excited about from a fantasy standpoint, as he was hitting .203 with zero home runs, five runs, two RBI and one stolen base through 84 plate appearances on the season.
May 10 2022Madrigal was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with lower-back tightness, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Montemurro, Madrigal felt the tightness during Monday's contest, and he'll now be sidelined for at least the next 10 days. Ildemaro Vargas will join the big-league club as infield depth in a corresponding move.
May 7 2022Madrigal will sit for the second part of Saturday's doubleheader against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal went 0-for-3 in the first game of the day, dropping his season average to .225. Jonathan Villar will get the start at second base in the nightcap.
May 5 2022Madrigal went 2-for-3 with a stolen base Wednesday in a loss to the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cubs got most of their production Wednesday out of the bottom of the order, as No. 8 and No. 9 hitters Patrick Wisdom and Madrigal combined for four of the team's five hits. The latter also swiped his first base of the campaign in the second inning. Madrigal is batting just .235 on the season, but he may be heating up, as he's gone 6-for-18 (.333) over his past five games.
Apr 24 2022Madrigal is starting at second base and batting ninth in Sunday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal rested Saturday and missed the fun during a 21-0 Chicago romp. The Cubs are finding ways to get Jonathan Villar into the lineup regularly, and he played second base Saturday, pushing Madrigal to the bench. Villar shifts to shortstop Sunday, so Madrigal returns and Nico Hoerner gets the day off. Madrigal has yet to do much at the plate with a .565 OPS, no home runs and just one RBI, and his place at the bottom of the order limits his fantasy appeal somewhat.
Apr 23 2022Madrigal is not in Saturday's lineup against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Patrick Wisdom gets the start at third base with Jonathan Villar shifting to second base. Madrigal is hitting .227 with zero home runs and zero steals in 44 at-bats.
Apr 21 2022Madrigal isn't starting Thursday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal drew starts in the last four games and went 5-for-15 with a double, two runs and an RBI. Jonathan Villar will shift to second base while Patrick Wisdom starts at the hot corner.
Apr 18 2022Madrigal went 3-for-5 with a double and two runs scored in Sunday's win over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal only recorded one hit through his first four games but has bounced back admirably and is now riding a three-game hitting streak, going 6-for-13 (.462) in the process. Plus, he has knocked extra-base hits in each of his last two contests as well. The second baseman seems to be turning things around following a dreadful start to the campaign.
Apr 16 2022Madrigal isn't starting Saturday's game against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal went 3-for-8 with a double, two runs and a walk in the last two games, and he'll get a breather Saturday. Jonathan Villar will start at the keystone and bat second.
Apr 13 2022Madrigal is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll bow out of the starting nine for the first time all season after going 1-for-15 with a walk through four games. Jonathan Villar steps in for Madrigal at second base.
Apr 4 2022Madrigal (leg) went 1-for-4 with a three-run home run in Monday's Cactus League game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal missed Cactus League games Friday and Saturday due to leg fatigue. He appeared in an intrasquad scrimmage Sunday, and it was good to see him return to regular action Monday and hit his first home run this spring. The 25-year-old has a strong .921 OPS in Cactus League play and should be ready for a good year after missing a significant chunk of the 2021 season due to proximal tendon tears in his right hamstring. The Cubs will likely limit his playing time in the early going, however, as he makes his way back following surgery.
Apr 3 2022Madrigal (leg) was spotted playing second game during an intrasquad scrimmage at big-league camp Sunday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal remains out of the Cubs' Cactus League lineup Sunday for the fourth day in a row, but his ability to play his normal defensive position in an intrasquad game implies that his recent bout with leg fatigue isn't anything to worry about as Opening Day approaches. The 25-year-old is expected to be a fixture in the Cubs' everyday lineup against both left- and right-handed pitching, likely hitting out of the bottom half of the order.
Apr 2 2022Madrigal (leg) isn't starting Saturday's Cactus League game against the Angels, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was scratched from Friday's Cactus League matchup after he felt some tightness while warming up and running the bases. However, he feels better Saturday and plans to participate in a workout. As long as he continues to feel good, Madrigal expects to play in Sunday's spring game against Cleveland.
Mar 21 2022Madrigal (hamstring) will start at second base and bat leadoff in Monday's Cactus League game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will be making his spring and Cubs debuts Monday, as he didn't appear in a game for the North Siders after coming over in a July 30 deal with the White Sox since he was still recovering from surgery to address a torn right hamstring. Though the Cubs could look to limit Madrigal's early-season exposure to the keystone and use him as a designated hitter in an effort to limit the strain on his surgically repaired hamstring, his inclusion in the field early in spring training suggests the team is confident he's back to 100 percent health. Whether he's deployed at second base or DH in a given game, Madrigal's blend of contact skills and decent speed could make him a fit as a leadoff man, though his low walk rates may not give him much staying power atop the lineup.
Mar 14 2022Madrigal (hamstring) will likely be one of several players that Chicago manager David Ross rotates into the designated hitter spot this season, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was acquired by the Cubs at the trade deadline last summer but was already out for the year following surgery to repair proximal tendon tears in his right hamstring. He's expected to be ready for the start of the regular season, but the Cubs could still ease the 25-year-old back into action by using him as the DH from time to time. Willson Contreras, Ian Happ (elbow) and Clint Frazier were also identified as candidates to serve as the DH, as Ross seems intent on mixing and matching in the spot.
Jul 30 2021Madrigal (hamstring) and Codi Heuer were acquired by the Cubs from the White Sox on Friday in exchange for right-hander Craig Kimbrel, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 24-year-old underwent season-ending surgery to repair the proximal tendon tears in his right hamstring back in June, but he still brings a ton of value for the Cubs even if it won't come in 2021. Madrigal lost his prospect status this year prior to the injury, and he hit .305/.349/.425 with two homers, 10 doubles, four triples, 21 RBI and 30 runs in 54 games before landing on the injured list. The status of Madrigal's recovery remains unclear, though he was expected to be ready for 2022 spring training based on the initial rehab timeline. He should slot in as the starter at second base for his new team once healthy, likely hitting near the top of the order.
Jun 15 2021Madrigal (hamstring) had successful surgery Tuesday and will officially miss the rest of the 2021 season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The surgery repaired the proximal tendon tears in Madrigal's right hamstring. The second baseman was initially placed on the 60-day injured list with optimism of a late-season return, but any such hopes were eliminated with the team's Tuesday update. Madrigal is expected to be fully recovered in time for the start of next season.
Jun 10 2021Madrigal was placed on the 60-day injured list with a proximal tear of his right hamstring Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was removed from Wednesday's game against the Blue Jays with right hamstring tightness after he was hurt while running to first base in the seventh inning. The 24-year-old will miss at least two months while he recovers, and surgery hasn't been ruled out. Danny Mendick and Leury Garcia should see increased time at second base going forward, while Brian Goodwin's contract was selected by the White Sox in a corresponding move.
Jun 9 2021Madrigal left Wednesday's game against the Blue Jays with right hamstring tightness, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The second baseman went 1-for-3 with an RBI double before being replaced by Danny Mendick in the eighth inning. Madrigal will be evaluated Thursday, at which point the length any potential absence might be determined.
Jun 5 2021Madrigal went 2-for-4 with an RBI in Saturday's 4-3 loss to the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It marked Madrigal's second consecutive two-hit game. The second baseman has struck out just 16 times while slashing .300/.343/.416 cross 204 plate appearances this season. He should continue to see regular time at the keystone going forward.
Jun 3 2021Madrigal is not in Thursday's lineup against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He is hitting .351 with zero home runs and zero steals over his last 10 games. Leury Garcia will start at second base and bat eighth.
May 31 2021Madrigal went 2-for-4 with a triple, an RBI and a run scored in Sunday's 3-1 win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal reversed an 0-for-9 run with a fifth-inning single, then was a key figure in a two-run seventh inning that provided the margin of victory. He tripled home Tim Anderson and scored the insurance run on Yoan Moncada's single. Sunday's multi-hit effort was his fourth in the last six games, during which he's 10-for-22 (.455) with two extra-base hits, two RBI and three runs scored.
May 28 2021Madrigal batted leadoff for a second consecutive day and went 2-for-4 with a walk, a double and a run scored in Thursday's 5-1 win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal filled in at leadoff for Tim Anderson, who sat out games Wednesday and Thursday due to a sore left thumb. He's reached base seven times in 10 plate appearances in those two games and has a .908 OPS when batting leadoff this season. Anderson is due back Friday, so Madrigal could return to his customary nine hole, or bat second if Adam Eaton (hamstring) remains out.
May 26 2021Madrigal went 3-for-4 with an RBI, a run scored and was caught stealing in Tuesday's 8-3 win over the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is fourth on the White Sox with 44 base hits, a figure that could increase if his BABIP would cooperate. He's posted a .303 BABIP (league average is .289) while the three teammates ahead of him -- Yoan Moncada (.400), Yermin Mercedes (.388) and Tim Anderson (.367) -- have been considerably luckier than the second baseman.
May 22 2021Madrigal went 1-for-4 with an RBI in Friday's 2-1 loss to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal plated Chicago's lone run with a bloop to right field in the eighth inning before the Yankees pushed a run across in the ninth. The second baseman, who popped his first career home run earlier this week, has slumped otherwise. Madrigal is 5-for-26 (.192) over the last seven games.
May 19 2021Madrigal isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal will get a breather after he went hitless with a walk in three at-bats Tuesday. Danny Mendick will start at second base and bat ninth.
May 17 2021Madrigal went 3-for-5 with a walk, a double, a home run, two RBI and three runs scored in Monday's 16-4 rout of the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He took J.A. Happ deep in the third inning, giving the light-hitting second baseman the first homer of his career. Madrigal came into Monday mired in a miserable May, slashing .200/.200/.220 through 12 games, but this performance could signal the start of a hot streak.
May 13 2021Madrigal isn't starting Thursday's game against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal had gone 5-for-19 with a double, three runs and an RBI in his last four games. Leury Garcia will shift to second base while Billy Hamilton starts in center field.
May 1 2021Madrigal isn't starting Saturday against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal had gone 4-for-7 with a double, three runs and an RBI across the last two contests. Leury Garcia will start at second base and bat ninth.
Apr 29 2021Madrigal isn't in the lineup for the first game of Thursday's twin bill against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was slated to sit out Wednesday's game before it was postponed, but he'll instead get a breather in Game 1 of Thursday's twin bill. Leury Garcia will start at the keystone and bat ninth.
Apr 28 2021Madrigal is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is hitting .351 with zero home runs, zero steals, two strikeouts and one walk over his last 10 games. Leury Garcia will start at second base and bat eighth.
Apr 25 2021Madrigal went 1-for-4 with an RBI double in Saturday's 2-1 win over Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal fell behind in the count 0-2 when reliever John King left a slider over the heart of the plate that "Nicky Two Strikes" lined over the head of right fielder Joey Gallo, producing the walkoff win for the White Sox. The contact-hitting second baseman delivered a run for the third straight contest and has five RBI over the last five.
Apr 18 2021Madrigal batted leadoff and went 2-for-3 with a double, two RBI and a run scored in the second game of Sunday's doubleheader against Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal moved to the top of the order with Tim Anderson getting the second game off and made an impact early. He singled to open the game and came home on a Jose Abreu groundout. He later doubled in the final run in Chicago's three-run fourth inning. Madrigal has hit in four straight, going 7-for-14 with a double, three RBI and two runs scored.
Apr 14 2021Madrigal went 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored Wednesday in an 8-0 win over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three of Madrigal's hits were singles, the first of which knocked in Chicago's sixth run in the first inning. The 24-year-old is slashing .278/.366/.306 on the campaign after batting .340 over 103 at-bats last season.
Apr 7 2021Madrigal went 1-for-3 with a single, a stolen base and a run scored in Tuesday's 10-4 win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal reached base in the eighth after getting hit in the shoulder and promptly took second for his first steal of the young season. The former 2018 first-round pick only had two steals in 29 games last year, but hopefully this could be a sign that he'll be more active when on base to make up for his lack of run production so far at the plate.
Apr 6 2021Madrigal batted leadoff in place of the injured Tim Anderson (hamstring) and went 0-for-4 with a walk in a 6-0 win over Seattle on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Anderson came up lame on his first at-bat Sunday and was unavailable for Monday's contest. As a result, the contact-making Madrigal moved from ninth to the top of the order, and he extended his on-base streak to four games, though he also went hitless for the first time this season.
Apr 3 2021Madrigal will sit Saturday against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal started the first two games of the season at second base, going 2-for-8 while getting caught stealing in his only attempt to run. Leury Garcia takes over at the keystone in his absence.
Mar 20 2021Madrigal went 3-for-3 with a run scored in Friday's spring game against Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal recently returned from lingering soreness in his surgically-repaired shoulder and has been limited to 11 spring at-bats. With just under two weeks remaining before the regular season, he should have just enough time to log the plate appearances to be ready.
Mar 16 2021Madrigal (shoulder) will start at second base and bat second in Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After completing his recovery from the left shoulder surgery he required last October, Madrigal was cleared to make his spring debut March 8. The White Sox then held him out for the next week after he experienced some residual soreness in the shoulder, but Madrigal looks to be good to go after the extended rest period. Opening Day is still two weeks away, so Madrigal still has sufficient time to get ramped up for the start of the season.
Mar 14 2021Madrigal has not played in a game since making his spring debut last Monday, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal, who underwent offseason shoulder surgery, has experienced residual soreness in his left shoulder after that first appearance. White Sox manager Tony La Russa said Madrigal could return to game action as early as Tuesday and as late as Thursday.
Mar 9 2021Madrigal started at second base and went 0-for-2 in Monday's spring game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his first Cactus League appearance, Madrigal slotted in at familiar spots, second base and ninth in the batting order. The infielder had been rehabbing from offseason shoulder surgery and reported no ill effects from his first game action. "There's been no setbacks at all," Madrigal told Scott Merkin of MLB.com. "If anything, I'm ahead of schedule in their eyes. I've been progressing really well from the strength side of it to mobility." The White Sox will evaluate Madrigal on Tuesday to see how he responds to Monday's activity; if there are no issues, look for him to see plenty of at-bats to get ready for the regular season.
Mar 8 2021Madrigal (shoulder) will start at second base and will bat ninth Monday in the White Sox's Cactus League game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As was anticipated coming out of the weekend, Madrigal will get the chance to make his spring debut Monday after the White Sox elected to bring him along slowly in the early stages of camp following his October surgery on his left shoulder. The fact that Madrigal will be playing his first game in the field rather than as a designated hitter suggests that the White Sox are confident in his health. Assuming his debut Monday goes smoothly, Madrigal will turn his focus to ramping up ahead of Opening Day, when he'll likely serve as the White Sox's starter at the keystone.
Mar 3 2021Madrigal (shoulder) is expected to make his Cactus League debut against the Dodgers on Monday, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was expected to return to action in early March after undergoing shoulder surgery during the offseason. He's on track to do so, as manager Tony La Russa said Wednesday that he's currently penciled in to start Monday. Barring any setbacks, Madrigal will have several weeks to ramp up his conditioning ahead of Opening Day.
Feb 17 2021Madrigal (shoulder) should be ready for Cactus League play by early March, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal underwent shoulder surgery during the offseason that carried a recovery timeline of 5-to-6 months. While he likely won't be available to begin Cactus League play, the 23-year-old should be able to appear in exhibition games for several weeks leading up to Opening Day. Assuming he's fully healthy, Madrigal should have an everyday role at second base for the White Sox in 2021.
Oct 12 2020White Sox general manager Rick Hahn announced Monday that Madrigal recently underwent surgery on his left shoulder, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. The second baseman is expected to require 5-to-6 months of the recovery time. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After jamming his left shoulder in an Aug. 4 game, Madrigal spent most of the month on the injured list before being activated. Following his reinstatement, Madrigal quickly caught fire at the dish, slashing .349/.385/.384 over his final 24 regular-season contests. Despite closing the campaign with a flurry at the dish, offseason surgery was always expected to be in the cards for Madrigal. Based on the timeline the White Sox provided, Madrigal likely won't be at full strength for the start of spring training, but he'll still have a decent chance at being ready to go for Opening Day. Once cleared to play, Madrigal should be locked into an everyday role at the keystone.
Sep 24 2020Madrigal is not in Thursday's lineup against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He is in the midst of a seven-game hitting streak and is batting .400 with one extra-base hit (a double) and zero steals on one attempt over that span. Yolmer Sanchez will handle the keystone and bat eighth.
Sep 19 2020Madrigal went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Friday's 7-1 loss to the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Tim Anderson getting a breather, Madrigal moved from ninth in the order to leadoff. It was the eighth multi-hit effort in 21 games for the rookie, whose contact skills have been evident during his introduction to MLB. He struck out once Friday, the first whiff in seven contests and just his sixth in 78 plate appearances.
Sep 13 2020Madrigal is not in Sunday's lineup against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He is hitting .321 with zero home runs and zero steals in 28 at-bats this month, although he chipped in his lone extra-base hits of the season by hitting a pair of doubles Sept. 8. Danny Mendick will start at the keystone and bat eighth.
Sep 9 2020Madrigal went 1-for-4 with two RBI in Wednesday's 8-1 victory over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal has missed a lot of time this season with a shoulder ailment, although he has displayed a knack to get on base during his small sample size. The 23-year-old is 19-for-50 with a .404 on-base percentage thus far in 2020. The White Sox are top-five in the league in runs scored, adding slightly more appeal to Madrigal's outlook.
Sep 6 2020Madrigal is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Danny Mendick will start at second base and bat eighth against right-hander Matt Harvey. Madrigal is batting .423 in seven games since returning from a shoulder injury, though all 11 hits in that span have been singles and he still sits with just one walk for the season.
Sep 3 2020Madrigal isn't in Thursday's lineup against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is riding a five-game hitting streak since returning from the injured list, but he'll get a breather for the series opener against Kansas City. Danny Mendick will start at second base.
Aug 31 2020Madrigal went 3-for-4 with an RBI and a stolen base in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is on fire coming off the injured list with a shoulder injury, having gone 5-for-8 with two RBI, two runs and a stolen base across the two games since being activated. While the steal was just his first, Madrigal was a threat in 2019 when he stole 35 bases at three different minor-league stops.
Aug 30 2020Madrigal went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored in Saturday's 9-6 loss to Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was activated from the injured list Friday but did not play in that night's game. He's expected to the be the primary second baseman moving forward, but the White Sox got quality work out of Danny Mendick as a fill-in, so manager Rick Renteria would not be shy about pulling Madrigal if he struggles at the dish.
Aug 28 2020Madrigal is not in Friday's lineup against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He was activated from the injured list earlier in the day but will have to wait at least one game before rejoining the starting nine. Danny Mendick is hitting .250 with three home runs over his last nine games, and the White Sox will award him with another start at the keystone.
Aug 25 2020Manager Rick Renteria said Tuesday that Madrigal (shoulder) requires "at least a few more days" at the team's alternate training site before returning, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal could still be on track for a return in late August, although it appears as though he won't return for the team's current series against the Pirates. If all goes well in Schaumburg, it's possible that the 23-year-old could return for the White Sox's upcoming series against the Royals, which is scheduled to begin Friday.
Aug 17 2020Madrigal (shoulder) has resumed most baseball activities and remains on track to return before the end of the month, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal lasted just five games into his debut season before separating his left shoulder in early August. He continues making good progress, though his precise timeline remains unclear. Danny Mendick has been the primary second baseman in his absence.
Aug 16 2020Madrigal (shoulder) is playing catch and taking groundballs, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal is hoping for a return this week and appears to be progressing toward that goal. With Leury Garcia (thumb) out until 2021, the second-base job should be Madrigal's once he's ready. Danny Mendick is handling the chores at the keystone until the rookie finishes his rehab.
Aug 7 2020Madrigal hopes to be back on the field in two weeks after landing on the injured list with a separated left shoulder Wednesday, Scot Gregor of the Chicago Daily Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The White Sox originally stated that they hoped Madrigal would be back by the end of the month, but Madrigal's own timeline appears to be a bit more aggressive. Whether that's simply a case of the very common phenomenon of a player being optimistic about his own health or a meaningful change to his prognosis remains to be seen. Danny Mendick has started the last two games at second base in his absence.
Aug 5 2020Madrigal was diagnosed with a separated left shoulder and will be placed on the 10-day injured list, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 23-year-old suffered the injury Tuesday as his left arm was jammed into the ground on a feet-first slide attempt. Madrigal is expected to be sidelined for at least a few weeks, but the White Sox hope he'll be able to return by the end of August. Tim Anderson (groin) is also on the IL, leaving Leury Garcia and Danny Mendick as the top options to work in the middle infield.
Aug 4 2020Madrigal exited Tuesday's game against the Brewers with a left shoulder injury. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 23-year-old was thrown out attempting to go first-to-third on a single up the middle during the third inning, and his left arm was jammed awkwardly into the ground on his feet-first slide. Madrigal will be further examined Wednesday and should be considered day-to-day until more is known on the injury.
Aug 2 2020Madrigal went 4-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored in Sunday's 9-2 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal turned the page on a rough introduction to MLB -- an 0-for-8 in games Friday and Saturday -- with Sunday's four-hit effort. He was integral to Chicago's seven-run seventh inning, scoring the run that broke a 2-2 tie, then driving in the team's final run for his first RBI of the season.
Jul 31 2020Madrigal is starting at second base and batting ninth in his major-league debut Friday against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 23-year-old had his contract purchased by the White Sox earlier Friday, and he'll immediately replace Leury Garcia in the starting lineup. Madrigal began 2019 at High-A Winston Salem but he finished the season at Triple-A Charlotte with a .331/.398/.424 slash line. He totaled 35 stolen bases in 120 minor-league games last season, though only four of those steals came during his time at Triple-A. Madrigal should have the chance to secure an everyday spot in the lineup, pushing Garcia to a utility role.
Jul 30 2020White Sox director of player development Chris Getz said Thursday that Madrigal is "very close" to being ready to join the big club, Scot Gregor of the Chicago Daily Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal was unable to crack Chicago's season-opening 30-man roster, but his inclusion on the team's taxi squad in Schaumburg suggests he's on the doorstep of his first MLB callup. The White Sox have thus far leaned on Leury Garcia as their primary second baseman, but he didn't enter the season with much job security and hasn't helped his case by getting off to a 4-for-22 (.182 average) start. Given that Wednesday marked the first day teams could call up prospects for their debuts while preserving an extra year of MLB service time, Madrigal's promotion could seemingly come any day now.
Jul 23 2020Madrigal was transferred to the White Sox's alternate training site Thursday, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team's second baseman of the future will likely have to wait at least seven days before joining the big club, as the team will probably opt to manipulate his service time. In the meantime, Leury Garcia should start at the keystone.
Jun 25 2020Madrigal may not open the season with the White Sox, but general manager Rick Hahn envisions the second baseman making his MLB debut in 2020, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That's the same position Madrigal was in during spring training; he was expected to open at Triple-A Charlotte then join the White Sox later in the season. "He certainly is a consideration for breaking with us and if not immediately then certainly helping us at some point over the course of this summer," Hahn said. Madrigal would initially serve as the backup at second base to Leury Garcia.
Mar 10 2020Madrigal confirmed Tuesday that he suffered no serious injuries after a groundball struck his face Monday, but he'll sit for the next few days, Andy Masur of 720 WGN Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal wasn't showing any signs of a concussion immediately after leaving the game, and it appears that none have developed since then. The delay shouldn't significantly impact his readiness for Opening Day. He's expected to spend that day in the minors, but his big-league debut could come fairly early in the season. He's played just 29 games for Triple-A Charlotte but looked quite good in those games, hitting .331/.398/.424 with a typically miniscule 3.7 percent strikeout rate.
Mar 9 2020Madrigal left Monday's game against the Reds after a groundball hit him in the face, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal appeared to have suffered nothing worse than a bruise and was not showing signs of a concussion after leaving the game. It remains to be seen when he'll be back on the field.
Feb 25 2020Madrigal started at second base and went 0-for-3 in a spring game against the Dodgers on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Madrigal, a top prospect in the organization, is part of the competition at second base, although the consensus opinion entering spring training is that he'll need to be off the charts to open the season in Chicago. He's hit at all stops in the minors but has just 134 plate appearances in Triple-A. There's a good chance Madrigal emerges as the everyday option at the keystone later in the season.
Jul 31 2019Madrigal was promoted to Triple-A Charlotte on Wednesday, James Fegan of The Athletic reports.
Jul 16 2018Madrigal was promoted to Low-A Kannapolis on Monday.While Madrigal didn't excel during his five-game stint in the Arizona League with a 2-for-13 showing at the dish, his outstanding production during his college career at Oregon State ensured it wouldn't be long before he moved up to a full-season affiliate. The fourth overall pick is being developed as a shortstop for now, though it's likely the 21-year-old will ultimately end up at the keystone due to his lack of a powerful arm.
Jul 10 2018Madrigal has been battling a minor hamstring issue for the past three weeks, but could return to the AZL this weekend, Scot Gregor of the Chicago Daily Herald reports.He has only logged three plate appearances as a pro, and now we know why. The middle infielder from Oregon State is considered to be the best pure hitter from the 2018 draft class, and also has impact speed on the bases.
Jul 8 2018Madrigal finished his stint in Arizona and will report to Low-A Kannapolis on Sunday, Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune reports.Madrigal, the fourth-overall pick in last month's draft, signed earlier this week and spent a few days with the White Sox's entry in the Arizona Rookie League. He's a middle infielder that will focus on shortstop early on, but is comfortable at either keystone position.
Jul 6 2018Madrigal signed with the White Sox on Thursday, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports.Madrigal was drafted fourth overall by the White Sox and followed that up by helping his Oregon State defeat Arkansas in the College World Series finals. The 21-year-old middle infielder batted .367/.428/.511 with 34 RBI, 41 runs scored and 15 stolen bases over 42 games as a junior for the Beavers. He'll be joining the White Sox's affiliate in the Arizona Rookie League, where he'll play shortstop for a couple of games before moving onto Low-A Kannapolis.
Jun 4 2018The White Sox have selected Madrigal with the fourth overall pick in the 2018 first-year player draft.The shortest player (5-foot-7) likely to be taken in the first round might also be the best pure hitter in this year's class. Madrigal missed a couple months this spring with a broken wrist, but returned in April, and his performance has not skipped a beat. Through 119 at-bats, the Oregon State junior is hitting .395/.459/.563 with two home runs, nine steals (on nine attempts) and a 5:12 K:BB. He becomes only the fourth right-handed hitting college second baseman to come off the board in the first round since 1987, joining Rickie Weeks (No. 2 overall in 2003), Kolbrin Vitek (No. 20 overall in 2010) and Keston Hiura (No. 9 overall in 2017), per Matt Eddy of Baseball America. This group is even more exclusive than it seems, as Vitek and Hiura were college outfielders who moved to second base as pros and Weeks had one of the rarest collection of tools of any college draft pick of the last 20 years. If we forget about the right-handed aspect of the profile, the best comparison to Madrigal might be Dustin Ackley, who was the No. 2 overall pick in 2009 -- selected almost exclusively because of how special everyone thought his hit tool was going to be. That doesn't mean Madrigal will be a bust, it just illustrates how rare it is for someone of his ilk to be drafted this highly. Scouts are in agreement that Madrigal's hit tool is special and he has at least plus speed and good instincts on the bases, so ideally he will be a force in batting average, runs and stolen bases. He has good enough hands and lateral quickness for shortstop, but his arm will likely confine him to the keystone in pro ball. Madrigal doesn't project to be a double-digit home run threat, so his hit tool will have to be as good as advertised for this pick to work out.