Chicago Cubs Receive Strong Haul in Return for Matt Garza

Mike Olt has a future at third base, but might get his break in Chicago instead of Texas after yesterday’s trade. (Image Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports)

Third baseman Mike Olt is easily the big-name piece in the deal, as he’s been entrenched in trade talks dating back to last year. The 24 year old entered the season as the 22nd best prospect in all of Major League Baseball, according to Baseball America, but his future with the Rangers has always been uncertain. Blocked by Adrian Beltre at third base, Texas had utilized Olt at both first base and right field at various points last year but he’s remained strictly at the hot corner in 2013.

Olt crushed opposing pitchers at Double-A Frisco in 2012, hitting to the tune of a .288/.398/.579 line with 28 HR in 420 PA before getting a callup to Texas in August. He’d struggle to adjust to the jump to the Major Leagues, however, and mustered a mere .152/.250/.182 line in 40 PA. There was still a ton of promise there, but with uncertainty about his future place in the Rangers lineup it became apparent over the winter that the team was willing to move him in the right deal.

He’s spent the entirety of the 2013 season with Triple-A Round Rock, but he’s been unable to put up similar offensive numbers. Olt’s hit .213/.317/.422 in 268 PA on the year. He’s battled vision problems much of the season, which could be the cause of his struggles.

Chicago has assigned Olt to their Triple-A Iowa affiliate, where it’s believed he’ll play third base daily. He’s considered a strong defender at the position and it seems apparent that he’ll push long time Cubs prospect Josh Vitters into more of a utility role. Olt may see some time in Chicago in September if he can regain his old offensive form as the Cubs continue to look ahead to 2014.