Unsigned Wilmer Flores Emerges as Cubs Bench Option

Veteran infielder Wilmer Flores, currently unsigned, is being considered by the Chicago Cubs as a potential replacement for the injured Tyler Austin, who is out for months after knee surgery. The 34-year-old right-handed hitter last played for the Giants in 2025, where he posted a .241/.307/.379 slash line with 16 home runs in 125 games. Flores is likely seeking a guaranteed major league deal, which could push the Cubs into luxury tax territory, but he offers a direct replacement for Austin's role.