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Northfield Today
By the People, for the People
Cubs Re-Sign Veteran Reliever Caleb Thielbar
The 39-year-old left-hander will continue to provide bullpen depth for Chicago in 2026.
Apr. 19, 2026 at 2:00am
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A cubist interpretation of a veteran relief pitcher's delivery, reflecting the strategic complexities of late-inning bullpen management.Northfield TodayThe Chicago Cubs have re-signed veteran relief pitcher Caleb Thielbar to a one-year contract for the 2026 season. Thielbar, a 39-year-old left-hander, has spent the past two seasons with the Cubs, posting a 2.64 ERA and 56:13 K:BB ratio over 58 innings in 2025. He will continue to provide bullpen depth and serve as a left-handed specialist for the Cubs in the upcoming season.
Why it matters
Thielbar's re-signing provides stability and experience in the Cubs' bullpen, especially against left-handed hitters. As a veteran reliever, he can mentor younger pitchers and help bridge the gap to the team's closer. His ability to limit left-handed batters will be valuable in key late-inning situations.
The details
Thielbar, a native of Northfield, Minnesota, has spent the past two seasons with the Cubs after previously playing for several other MLB teams. In 2025, he posted a 2.64 ERA and 56:13 K:BB ratio over 58 regular-season innings, holding left-handed hitters to a .161/.211/.276 batting line. The Cubs are hoping the 39-year-old can continue to be a reliable bullpen option in 2026.
- Thielbar will turn 39 years old in January 2026.
- The Cubs re-signed Thielbar to a one-year contract on Tuesday, April 16, 2026.
The players
Caleb Thielbar
A 39-year-old left-handed relief pitcher who has spent the past two seasons with the Chicago Cubs, posting a 2.64 ERA and 56:13 K:BB ratio over 58 innings in 2025.
Chicago Cubs
The Major League Baseball team that plays in Chicago, Illinois and competes in the National League Central division.
What’s next
Thielbar will report to Cubs spring training in February 2026 to prepare for the upcoming season. He will look to build on his success from 2025 and solidify his role in the Cubs' bullpen.
The takeaway
The Cubs' decision to re-sign the veteran left-hander Caleb Thielbar demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a reliable and experienced bullpen. Thielbar's ability to limit left-handed hitters will be crucial in late-inning situations, and his mentorship of younger pitchers could pay dividends for the Cubs in the 2026 season.
