With spring training just over a month away, the Chicago Cubs continue to build outfield depth.
The Cubs announced they have officially signed center fielder from the San Francisco Giants. The Giants designated the 29-year-old for assignment last week to clear a 40-man roster spot for newly signed starter Tyler Mahle.
Dean made his major league debut in 2025 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, though his offensive opportunities were limited. He logged just two plate appearances across 18 games, with manager Dave Roberts primarily using him as a pinch runner and late-inning defensive replacement.
Selected in the 17th round of the 2018 draft, Dean excelled in that role during Los Angeles’ postseason run. He appeared in 13 playoff games and unexpectedly played a key part in Game 6 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
In that game’s ninth inning, Dean’s quick thinking helped preserve the Dodgers’ lead. After a ball off the bat of Addison Barger became lodged beneath the center-field wall, Dean immediately alerted the umpire, resulting in a dead-ball ruling that prevented a run from scoring and left runners stranded at second and third. With a 3–1 advantage intact, Tyler Glasnow closed out the inning, sending the series to a decisive Game 7.
Now with Chicago, Dean profiles as either minor-league insurance or a late-game weapon in the majors. His speed stands out, as he stole 27 bases in 36 attempts over 90 games at Triple-A Oklahoma City last season.
While his time in Los Angeles was brief, Dean’s World Series moment ensured his place in Dodgers lore.