Chicago Cubs sign veteran reliever to minor league contract

USA Today’s Bob Nightengale is reporting that the Cubs are making an addition to the franchise in veteran reliever Aaron Bummer. Bummer is no stranger to Chicago, spending from 2017-23 with the White Sox. However, he has been with the Atlanta Braves for the last three seasons.

He was released by the Braves on May 19 and now spends a little more than a week as a free agent before agreeing to this deal. Bummer has struggled this season as in 19 games, he is 1-1 with a 7.63 ERA and a 10:13 walk-to-strikeout ratio in 15.1 innings. The .281 opposing batting average Bummer has is the worst since 2022 for him.

It appears that a change of scenary was necessary for the veteran reliever, but the Cubs have not officially announced the move. It is expected that he will be pitching in Triple-A for the Iowa Cubs, but that is unofficial. Chicago has had some pitching woes and injuries, but the bullpen has been one of stronger aspects of the team thus far. Whether it is for depth as there are almost double-digit pitchers currently on the injured list, or for a middle reliever role, this is a smart signing for the Cubs.

If he begins in the minors, Bummer can help some players as they adjust to preparing for the big leagues themselves. This also could be a sign of a possible trade coming soon and the Cubs adding some reinforcements .It will be intriguing to see another righty reliever possibly joining the Cubs’ 26-man roster soon.