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Cubs Sign RHP Spencer Turnbull to Minor-League Deal

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Bobby Foster | Last updated Jul 18, 2025 10:48 PM ET

Like clockwork, the Chicago Cubs are adding potential pitching contributions to the organization. This time, it's 32-year-old Spencer Turnbull signing a minor league deal . The Cubs are no strangers to leaving no stone unturned in their quest to find value for very little. Brad Keller and Drew Pomeranz are a few veterans who have proven effective through this approach.

Turnbull has had a solid career as an innings-eater. Since debuting in 2018, the right-hander has primarily played for the Detroit Tigers. During his time there, he threw a no-hitter for the club.

The 2024 season was a good one for the Phillies. As both a starter and swingman, Turnbull was highly effective for the playoff-bound team. Surprisingly, it took a bit of time for the veteran to latch onto his next club for 2025.

Turnbull made three appearances with the Blue Jays, with a disastrous finish north of the border, posting a 7.11 ERA. Surely, there is something the Cubs see in his repertoire that needs a slight adjustment.

It doesn't excuse the team from needing to make more significant moves. They still need to add the necessary reinforcements for their playoff push. A top-of-the-rotation starter and a third baseman should be addressed with the utmost urgency.

If Turnbull can provide an ounce of production for the big league club, it will have been a solid signing. If not, it's once again a "no harm, no foul" proposition for the Cubs.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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