Cubs Agree to 2-Year Deal with Rehabbing Pitcher Shelby Miller

The veteran right-hander is recovering from Tommy John surgery and will miss the 2026 season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Chicago Cubs have reached an agreement on a 2-year contract with free agent pitcher Shelby Miller, who is currently rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. The deal will guarantee Miller at least $2.5 million over the two years, despite the fact that he will miss the entire 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Cubs have several pitchers set to become free agents after the 2026 season, so this multi-year signing with Miller helps lock in one arm for the team beyond that campaign. Miller is a veteran with over a decade of MLB experience, and the Cubs are hoping he can contribute once healthy.

The details

Miller, 35, appeared in 48 games between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Milwaukee Brewers last year, compiling a 4.04 ERA over his 13-year career. He had a 1.98 ERA before being traded to the Brewers, where things didn't go as smoothly before he suffered the injury. Miller actually pitched in three games for the Cubs in 2021 as he's bounced around the league in recent years.

  • The agreement was first reported on February 13, 2026.
  • Miller will miss the entire 2026 MLB season as he recovers from Tommy John surgery.

The players

Shelby Miller

A 35-year-old right-handed pitcher who is recovering from Tommy John surgery and has compiled a 4.04 ERA over his 13-year MLB career, primarily as a starter and more recently as a reliever.

Dansby Swanson

A shortstop who was once traded for Shelby Miller not long after being drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The two are now set to become teammates with the Cubs.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This deal highlights the Cubs' efforts to shore up their pitching staff for the future, even as Miller recovers from a major injury. The team is betting on Miller's experience and potential to contribute once healthy, as they look to build a competitive roster beyond the 2026 season.