Cubs Claim Infielder Ben Cowles Off Waivers from Blue Jays

Roster move comes as Shelby Miller heads to 60-day IL after offseason surgery

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Chicago Cubs have claimed infielder Ben Cowles off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays, the latest in a series of roster moves involving the 26-year-old over the past 15 months. To clear space on the 40-man roster, the Cubs transferred right-hander Shelby Miller to the 60-day injured list after he underwent UCL and flexor surgery last October, expected to keep him out for the entire 2026 season.

Why it matters

Cowles has yet to make his MLB debut but provides the Cubs with infield depth and versatility, having experience at shortstop, second base, third base, and the outfield. The move comes as the Cubs look to fill roster spots following injuries and transactions, including Miller's placement on the long-term IL.

The details

Cowles was originally a 10th-round pick by the New York Yankees in 2021 before being traded to the Cubs at the 2024 trade deadline. He has been designated for assignment multiple times and also spent time with the Chicago White Sox before returning to the Cubs this offseason. Over 536 career Triple-A plate appearances, Cowles owns a .235/.299/.368 line, though he hit .286 with an .829 OPS at Double-A in 2024.

  • On February 18, 2026, the Blue Jays claimed Cowles off waivers.
  • On March 2, 2026, the Cubs claimed Cowles off waivers from the Blue Jays.

The players

Ben Cowles

A 26-year-old infielder who has yet to make his MLB debut, but has experience at shortstop, second base, third base, and the outfield.

Shelby Miller

A right-handed pitcher for the Cubs who underwent UCL and flexor surgery in October 2025, expected to miss the entire 2026 season.

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What’s next

The Cubs will look to get Cowles some playing time at the major league level as they evaluate his potential to contribute to the roster in 2026 and beyond.

The takeaway

This move highlights the Cubs' efforts to add depth and versatility to their roster, particularly in the infield, as they navigate injuries and roster turnover during the offseason.