Cubs Cut Ties With 25-Year-Old Righty Just Before New Season

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The Chicago Cubs were forced to designate 25-year-old right-handed pitcher Jack Neely for assignment, as they needed to clear a roster spot for other players. Neely had been with the Cubs since a 2024 trade from the New York Yankees, but struggled to find success at the major league level, posting a 5.94 ERA in the minors last season. The Cubs had no other options to remove from the 40-man roster, so Neely's fate is now uncertain as another team could claim him.

Why it matters

Roster decisions like this are common as teams finalize their opening day rosters, but they can have significant impacts on a player's career trajectory. Neely had been with the Cubs organization for a few years, but his inability to establish himself at the major league level ultimately led to his designation for assignment, putting his future with the team and in baseball in jeopardy.

The details

The Cubs designated Neely for assignment on Wednesday, opening up a roster spot that was filled by second baseman Scott Kingery and left fielder Michael Conforto having their contracts selected. Neely, a 6-foot-8 right-hander, made his MLB debut with the Cubs in 2024 but struggled, allowing six earned runs and eight hits in six innings of work. He spent all of last season in the minors, posting a 5.94 ERA in 33 1/3 innings at Triple-A Iowa.

• Neely was acquired by the Cubs in a 2024 trade with the New York Yankees.
• Neely made his MLB debut with the Cubs in 2024, appearing in six games.
• Neely spent the 2025 season in the minors, struggling to a 5.94 ERA at Triple-A.
• The Cubs designated Neely for assignment on March 27, 2026, just before opening day.

What’s next

It is not yet guaranteed that the Cubs will lose Neely for good, as another team could claim him off waivers and add him to their 40-man roster. If he clears waivers, the Cubs could outright him to the minors.