Chicago Cubs Strengthen Bullpen with Génesis Cabrera

The Chicago Cubs have finalized a one-year major league contract with left-handed reliever Génesis Cabrera, bolstering their bullpen as they aim to maintain their National League Central lead. The move comes after Cabrera, 28, became a free agent following his designation for assignment by the New York Mets earlier this week.

Transaction Details

Cabrera, who made six appearances for the Mets in 2025, posted a 3.52 ERA and 1.30 WHIP with seven strikeouts over 7.2 innings before being released. His departure from New York was due to roster constraints after the Mets needed to recall another reliever for a marathon 13-inning game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The financial terms of his new deal with the Cubs remain undisclosed, but it is expected to pay him a prorated portion of the league minimum for the remainder of the 2025 Season.

Cabrera’s Profile and Performance

A seven-year MLB veteran, Cabrera has previously pitched for the St. Louis Cardinals and Toronto Blue Jays, amassing a career 3.88 ERA with 275 strikeouts in 283.1 innings. His standout traits include a 96 mph average fastball and an 8.2 K/9 rate, which caught the Cubs’ attention. However, his career has been marked by an 11.3% walk rate—something the Cubs’ pitching coaches aim to address.

Impact on the Cubs’ Bullpen

The Cubs’ bullpen has been inconsistent in 2025, ranking middle-of-the-pack in ERA despite strong performances from Drew Pomeranz (12.2 scoreless innings) and Caleb Thielbar (2.29 ERA). Cabrera’s addition provides manager Craig Counsell with another left-handed specialist to neutralize opposing lineups, particularly in high-leverage situations. His familiarity with the NL Central—having spent five seasons with the Cardinals—is seen as a strategic advantage against division rivals like the Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals.

Strategic Moves and Future Outlook

Cabrera’s signing comes at the expense of right-hander Brooks Kriske, who was designated for assignment to clear roster space. While Kriske had impressed in his lone 2025 appearance, he struggled with command in Triple-A. The Cubs remain active in exploring bullpen upgrades ahead of the trade deadline but view Cabrera’s addition as a low-risk, high-reward solution to address their left-handed relief needs.

Statement from Cubs Leadership

“Génesis brings a proven track record of success against left-handed hitters and a premium fastball that fits our bullpen profile,” said Cubs president Jed Hoyer. “We’re confident his experience will help stabilize our late-inning options as we push for October.”