CHICAGO — Searching for a spark in their latest round of roster reshuffling, the Chicago Cubs recalled outfielder Kevin Alcántara from Triple-A Iowa and designated backup infielder Nicky Lopez for assignment before Saturday’s game at Wrigley Field.Amid a six-game losing streak, this move followed Friday’s promotion for Pedro Ramírez, who received the opportunity when super-utility player Matt Shaw went on the injured list with back tightness. Ramírez and Alcántara — two of the organization’s best prospects — were not in Saturday’s starting lineup against the Houston Astros.With how the club is currently constructed, Cubs manager Craig Counsell made a point to say that Ramírez will not get consistent at-bats. And if Ramírez, 22, is not playing regularly, it will likely be a short stint at this level. The primary goal is to give Ramírez his first exposure to the major-league routine.
Alcántara, 23, already experienced parts of the last two seasons with the Cubs. Although his major-league experience amounts to only 13 games, he showed enough skills and composure to earn a roster spot for two playoff rounds last year.Is Alcántara going to play a lot during this stretch?“Kevin’s on the roster,” Counsell said. “If there’s spots to get him in there, absolutely, yeah.”Nicknamed “The Jaguar,” Alcántara held an orange glove covered in animal print as he spoke with reporters by the home dugout during batting practice. Listed at 6-foot-6, he’s an intriguing prospect with a combination of speed, power and the athleticism to play center field.“It’s helping with whatever’s necessary,” Alcántara said through an interpreter. “It’s waiting for an opportunity to contribute in any way possible. We’re all a team. We’re all here to support each other and collaborate.”The Cubs are still waiting for Alcántara to fully realize the potential they saw when they acquired him from the New York Yankees in the Anthony Rizzo deal at the 2021 trade deadline.Through 41 games at Iowa — his third year in Triple A — Alcántara had 15 home runs, 32 RBIs, a .906 OPS and 60 strikeouts in 180 plate appearances.“See the ball and hit it hard,” he said. “That’s my mindset.”
