The Houston Astros’ 2022 World Series championship will forever be one of the greatest moments in Houston sports history. There were so many important plays that made that title possible. One of the key players in that championship run was Chas McCormick.
After five years with the Astros, McCormick was outrighted at the end of the 2025 season. He then passed through waivers and elected to be a free agent. McCormick has now found his new home. According to Chandler Rome of The Athletic, the Chicago Cubs signed McCormick to a minor league contract on Thursday and invited him to their major league camp in spring training.
Former Astros World Series Hero Chas McCormick Signs with Cubs
The 31-year-old outfielder made his debut in 2021 and quickly became a fan favorite in Houston. McCormick became more involved in 2022, and his postseason performance that season was something to remember. He officially solidified himself as an Astros legend.
The Chicago Cubs are signing outfielder Chas McCormick to a minor-league deal that includes an invitation to major-league camp, source tells @TheAthletic.
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) January 22, 2026
The Catch
McCormick hit two home runs in the ALCS against the New York Yankees, including a two-run shot at Yankee Stadium in Game Three. While McCormick recorded no home runs or RBI in the World Series, his defense was absolutely crucial. It was a full-circle moment for the West Chester, PA native, who made one of the all-time great defensive plays in Astros history at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
With the Astros up 3-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning and Ryan Pressly in to close the game, Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto sent a deep fly ball to right-center field that looked dangerous. Except it wasn’t. McCormick, the starting center fielder, tracked down the ball and made a leaping catch right at the wall. He somehow pulled it down while crashing into the scoreboard and falling backward. It was a play that will have a special place in Astros history.
Chas McCormick!!!!! OH MY WORD!!!! pic.twitter.com/qMGbgxSGTV
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) November 4, 2022
It was one of the reasons why Houston ended up holding on in Game Five and closing out the series in six. Fans would do the “Chas Chomp” celebration when he came to the plate. While McCormick hit .257 with a .766 OPS in his first season, along with 14 home runs and 50 RBI, his numbers dipped slightly in 2022.
More on Chas McCormick’s Career Stats
Coming off a World Series ring, McCormick produced the best season of his career in 2023. The 6-foot right-handed bat crushed 22 home runs and 70 RBI, while posting an .842 OPS and .273 AVG. He was great on defense and stole 19 bases. That also included a six-RBI game against the Texas Rangers.
After that season, his career suddenly took a turn, and McCormick struggled offensively for the past two years. Since 2024, McCormick has been a below-average hitter with a .574 OPS and .211 average. He has only six home runs and 32 RBI in that time frame. McCormick has also dealt with multiple injuries and minor league rehab stints since 2023 as well.
What’s Next for Chas McCormick With the Cubs
It’s been a great story for the 21st round pick for the Astros back in 2017 from Millersville University. He remains one of the few products from that school and shows that someone even picked 631st can make it big. McCormick will look to get a fresh start in Chicago and join former Astros teammate Alex Bregman.
McCormick is now one of their better options as a fourth outfielder who can play all three positions and set up as a quality bat against left-handers. He has a career .280 average and .846 OPS against southpaws, while starter Pete Crow-Armstrong struggles in that aspect.
If he bounces back with the fresh start in the spring, he’ll likely make it onto the roster. If not, McCormick will begin in their minor league system. His status as an Astros legend will remain immortalized. For the Astros going forward, Jake Meyers will man center field while Cam Smith is in right. Jesus Sanchez will be an option for the corner outfield spots, along with Yordan Alvarez. It’s possible the Astros may shop for another quality outfielder before the season begins.
Main Photo Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports