The Chicago Cubs missed the playoffs in 2023 because their offense and bullpen were not good enough. Jed Hoyer did not do nearly enough to address either issue in the offseason, so the team still finds themselves with big holes in both places. If they are going to get this season on track, they need their stars to start playing like stars, but they also need to do something to jump-start an offense that is 16th in Major League Baseball in runs scored.

One thing they could do immediately is call up Alexander Canario who through 47 games at AAA Iowa has 14 home runs and an .897 OPS. It is time to give him an extended run at the big league level. That will require some shifting around with guys that are already on the team. Canario could play right field every day with Seiya Suzuki being the designated hitter. Pete Crow-Armstrong could be the everyday centerfielder with Cody Bellinger playing first base. This makes Michael Busch a bit of an odd man out, but there will be enough chances to get him in the lineup with his ability to play first base and third base as well as get some games as the designated hitter when guys need a day off.

The only downside to calling Canario up at this point is if he struggles at the major league level it could hurt his trade value. Canario could be one of the guys that would be the linchpin of a trade deadline deal if the Cubs are in a position to add for a playoff run when that time comes.

However, that should not be their biggest concern currently. Right now they need to string some wins together to even be in contention when the trade deadline comes around. Call up Canario and see what he can do!