Cubs Reportedly Sign Lefty Reliever Génesis Cabrera

Cabrera was DFA'd on Saturday and elected free agency earlier on Tuesday after clearing outright waivers. The 28-year-old had signed a minor league contract with New York prior to the season and he made six appearances with a 3.52 ERA and seven strikeouts this year. 

Cabrera features plus velocity, as his fastball has averaged around 96 mph for three straight seasons. The southpaw's arsenal also features a curveball, cutter, sinker, and splitter. In 2024, Cabrera logged 62.2 innings out of the Toronto Blue Jays bullpen with a 3.59 ERA, 13 holds, and 50 strikeouts. 

Cabrera could provide some nice depth for Chicago as they navigate this stretch without their closer Porter Hodge. Daniel Palencia (1.93) has emerged as an option for the ninth inning since Hodge has been on the shelf with an oblique issue. 

But the Cubs have been aggressive with their roster this year, especially with relievers who haven't been sharp. Most recently, the team designated Julian Merryweather for assignment after the Cubs' veteran posted a 5.79 ERA in 21 games. 

Drew Pomeranz (0.00), Brad Keller (2.49), and Caleb Thielbar (2.37) have been forming a tentative corps of reliable options for Manager Craig Counsell to rely on in high leverage situations. But Cabrera brings plenty of experience (283.1 MLB innings) to the table and he should be a main depth piece if someone goes down with an injury.