What's Happening?
The Chicago Cubs have signed right-handed pitcher Vince Velasquez and infielder Owen Miller to minor league contracts. Velasquez, a veteran pitcher with experience in Major League Baseball and the Korea Baseball Organization, has struggled with consistency and injuries throughout his career. He last pitched in the MLB with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2023 before undergoing elbow surgery. Owen Miller, a versatile infielder, has played in parts of five MLB seasons, primarily with Cleveland and Milwaukee. Despite a modest major league track record, Miller has shown potential in Triple-A. Both players are expected to join the Cubs' spring training camp as non-roster invitees.
Why It's Important?
These signings reflect the Cubs' strategy of bolstering their roster depth
with experienced players who have the potential to contribute at the major league level. Velasquez's signing is particularly noteworthy as it provides the Cubs with a potential rotation option if he can regain his form post-surgery. Miller's versatility in the infield could offer the Cubs flexibility in managing their lineup. These moves are part of a broader trend in MLB where teams seek to maximize value by signing players with upside on minor league deals, minimizing financial risk while potentially reaping significant rewards.
