The Chicago Cubs made a notable move to strengthen their bullpen depth, acquiring left-handed pitcher Drew Pomeranz from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for cash considerations. With their pitching staff under pressure during a challenging early-season stretch, the Cubs are once again attempting to rebuild their bullpen with experienced arms.
According to MLB sources, Pomeranz is expected to join the Cubs’ active roster by Wednesday, bringing with him years of Major League experience and a track record of success—when healthy.
Who Is Drew Pomeranz? Career Highlights and Pitching Stats
Drew Pomeranz, now 36, was once one of the most promising pitchers in baseball. Drafted fifth overall in the 2010 MLB Draft, the 6-foot-5 southpaw quickly ascended the ranks with an impressive fastball-curveball combo. He earned All-Star recognition as a starter and later found success out of the bullpen.
Most notably, during his stint with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2019, under then-manager Craig Counsell, Pomeranz thrived in a short relief role. He struck out 45 batters in just 26 1/3 innings, an elite rate that helped him earn a four-year, $34 million contract with the San Diego Padres.
From 2020 to 2021, Pomeranz posted an outstanding 1.62 ERA with San Diego when healthy. Unfortunately, injuries—including flexor tendon surgery in 2022 and a follow-up elbow procedure in 2023—limited him to just 47 appearances over that four-year contract.
Why the Cubs Made This Move Now
The Cubs bullpen has been underperforming this season. With a team ERA of 5.19, ranking 27th out of 30 MLB teams, the front office is under pressure to make adjustments. The club, currently in first place with a 14-10 record, has managed to stay competitive despite one of the toughest schedules in the league.
Bringing in a seasoned reliever like Pomeranz offers a low-risk, high-reward option for the Cubs’ middle innings. His recent numbers in Triple-A Tacoma—14 strikeouts over 9 2/3 innings with a 4.66 ERA—suggest he’s close to being ready for MLB action again.
A Familiar Face for Manager Craig Counsell
One of the most important aspects of this trade is Pomeranz’s familiarity with Craig Counsell, now the Cubs’ manager. Counsell previously managed Pomeranz in Milwaukee and utilized him effectively during a playoff push in 2019. Given that history, Counsell may have confidence in deploying Pomeranz in high-leverage situations, something the Cubs desperately need.
His prior success under Counsell’s guidance makes this a calculated bet—one that could pay dividends if Pomeranz stays healthy and returns to form.
Roster Implications: Who’s Out?
To make room for Pomeranz, the Cubs are likely to shift Justin Steele to the 60-day Injured List. Steele is recovering from season-ending elbow surgery, and this move would open up a spot on the 40-man roster.
Additionally, Jordan Wicks has already been optioned to Triple-A Iowa, a move that further signals the team’s plan to restructure its bullpen with experienced arms.
A Strategy That Has Worked Before
This isn’t the first time the Cubs have targeted overlooked talent from the Seattle Mariners’ pitching depth. Last May, Chicago traded for Tyson Miller, a little-known reliever who went on to produce a solid 5-1 record with a 2.15 ERA in 49 appearances. The front office is hoping Pomeranz can have a similar impact in 2025.
What Pomeranz Brings to the Cubs Bullpen
- Veteran leadership in a young bullpen
- A powerful left-handed arm with postseason experience
- Ability to neutralize left-handed hitters
- Flexibility as a multi-inning reliever or high-leverage specialist
- Proven success under manager Craig Counsell
While there’s no guarantee that Pomeranz will regain his All-Star form. His track record shows he can be a difference-maker if used strategically.
The Cubs’ acquisition of Drew Pomeranz aligns with their strategy of finding undervalued talent to support a playoff-caliber roster. While the bullpen has been the weak link in an otherwise strong team, adding a high-upside veteran like Pomeranz gives the Cubs a better chance at sustaining their momentum.
If he stays healthy and pitches to his potential, this move could be remembered as a pivotal one in the Cubs’ 2025 MLB season.
FAQs
1. Why did the Cubs trade for Drew Pomeranz?
The Cubs need reliable bullpen arms, and Pomeranz offers veteran experience and high strikeout potential at a low cost.
2. Will Drew Pomeranz be added to the Cubs’ 40-man roster?
Yes, he is expected to replace Justin Steele, who will likely move to the 60-day IL.
3. Is Drew Pomeranz fully healthy now?
He’s recovered from elbow surgery and has pitched in Triple-A this season, showing promising signs of a return to form.
4. What role will Pomeranz play in the Cubs bullpen?
He’s expected to pitch in middle relief or high-leverage spots, depending on how manager Craig Counsell deploys him.
5. How did Pomeranz perform with the Mariners’ Triple-A affiliate?
He recorded 14 strikeouts in 9 2/3 innings with a 4.66 ERA, signaling potential for MLB readiness.
