CHICAGO – The Chicago Cubs have announced the acquisition of infielder Vidal Bruján (vee-DAHL brew-HAHN) from the Miami Marlins, in exchange for infielder Matt Mervis and cash considerations. This transaction brings the Cubs’ 40-man roster to a total of 39 players.
Bruján, 26, has just completed his fourth major league season, his first with the Marlins. During this season, he posted a batting average of .222 (55-for-248) with two home runs and 16 RBIs over 102 games. Bruján showcased his versatility by making appearances at every position except catcher, including 1.2 innings pitched. His most frequent positions were second base (31 games, 22 starts) and shortstop (28 games, 25 starts).
Prior to his stint with the Marlins, Bruján played for the Tampa Bay Rays from 2021 to 2023. Over his career, he has participated in 201 major league games, recording a batting average of .189 (94-for-497) with five home runs and 40 RBIs. Born in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Bruján was originally signed as a free agent by the Rays on October 17, 2014. He was also recognized as an MiLB.com Organization All-Star for Tampa Bay in both 2018 and 2019.
Mervis, also 26, appeared in 36 major league games over parts of two seasons with the Cubs, hitting .155 (18-for-116) with three home runs and 14 RBIs.
