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Cubs Sign Shelby Miller, DFA Ben Cowles
The Cubs add a veteran pitcher recovering from injury to their roster.
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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The Chicago Cubs have officially announced the signing of right-handed pitcher Shelby Miller to a contract that includes a team option for 2028. To make room for Miller on the 40-man roster, the team designated infielder Ben Cowles for assignment. Miller is not expected to pitch in 2026 as he recovers from his second Tommy John surgery, but the Cubs see him as a potential contributor in 2027.
Why it matters
The Cubs' move to sign Miller, a former All-Star who has struggled with injuries in recent years, is a low-risk, high-upside gamble as the team looks to bolster its pitching depth for the future. The decision to DFA Cowles, who was added to the 40-man roster earlier, suggests the Cubs see Miller as a more valuable long-term asset.
The details
Miller's contract with the Cubs is reported to be worth $2.5 million, with the team option for 2028. To clear a spot on the 40-man roster, the Cubs designated infielder Ben Cowles for assignment. Cowles was previously added to the 40-man but will likely clear waivers and remain in the Cubs' spring training camp. The Cubs now have two players, Miller and left-hander Justin Steele, who can be placed on the 60-day injured list to open up roster spots closer to Opening Day.
- The Cubs officially announced the Shelby Miller signing on February 15, 2026.
- Miller is not expected to pitch for the Cubs in 2026 as he recovers from his second Tommy John surgery.
- The Cubs' first full-squad spring training workout is scheduled for Monday, February 19, 2026.
- The Cubs' spring training opener is set for Friday, February 20, 2026 against the White Sox.
The players
Shelby Miller
A right-handed pitcher who has been an All-Star in his career but has struggled with injuries in recent years, including undergoing two Tommy John surgeries.
Ben Cowles
An infielder who was previously added to the Cubs' 40-man roster but has now been designated for assignment to make room for Shelby Miller.
Justin Steele
A left-handed pitcher for the Cubs who can also be placed on the 60-day injured list to open up a roster spot.
Dylan Carlson
A non-roster invitee to the Cubs' spring training camp who has a reasonable chance of making the Opening Day roster as a backup outfielder.
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 move by the Cubs highlights their strategy of taking low-risk, high-upside fliers on veteran pitchers recovering from injury in the hopes of bolstering their pitching depth for the future, even if the immediate payoff is limited.
