The Chicago Cubs have added veteran pitcher Vince Velasquez and infielder Owen Miller to their organization on minor league contracts, each receiving invitations to spring training. These signings, made to strengthen roster depth, bring seasoned players into competition as the Cubs aim to contend in the upcoming season.
By signing established major league players on low-risk deals, the Cubs gain added options without heavy financial burden, while Velasquez and Miller earn opportunities to compete for major league spots on a team predicted to lead the NL Central.
Vince Velasquez Brings Major League Experience to the Mound
At 33 years old, right-handed pitcher Vince Velasquez brings nearly a decade of major league experience to Chicago’s roster. Drafted in the second round by Houston in 2010, Velasquez showed early promise as a prospect but encountered challenges maintaining consistent performance over his career.
Across 763â…” innings pitched, Velasquez holds a 4.88 ERA, with strikeout and walk rates of 24.9% and 9.3%, respectively. However, his susceptibility to home runs remains a concern, allowing 1.48 each nine innings. His most recent major league season came in 2023 with Pittsburgh, posting a 3.86 ERA over eight starts before undergoing elbow surgery.
After a 2024 season missed due to recovery, Velasquez spent last year playing with South Korea’s Lotte Giants, focusing on rebuilding his form and readiness for a potential return to MLB.
Owen Miller Adds Defensive Flexibility to the Infield
Owen Miller, 29, brings extensive defensive versatility alongside his major league experience. Primarily a right-handed hitter, Miller has spent parts of five MLB seasons with Cleveland and Milwaukee. Though his major league batting line–.238/.287/.342 over 1,032 plate appearances–is modest, his strong Triple-A performance indicates untapped potential.
More notably, Miller’s ability to cover all infield positions makes him a valuable asset. He has played nearly 2,000 innings at second base, over 1,500 innings at shortstop, and significant time at both first and third base. He has also seen action in the outfield and even provided relief pitching on occasion, highlighting his adaptability.
Building Organizational Depth to Support Playoff Ambitions
These roster moves complement the Cubs’ larger strategy as the organization looks to position itself as a serious division contender. Projections from FanGraphs expect Chicago to win 86 games and secure the NL Central title, ahead of the Milwaukee Brewers’ forecasted 83 victories.
By incorporating veteran players like Velasquez and Miller, the Cubs create internal competition and add insurance against injuries or underperformance during the season. These signings reflect a modern front office trend favoring affordable, experienced players willing to compete for roles rather than guaranteed contracts.
Spring training will be pivotal in determining whether Velasquez can contribute to the bullpen or rotation depth, and if Miller can earn a role as a flexible infield option. Both players embody calculated gambles that could pay dividends for a team striving for playoff success.
As the Cubs prepare for the upcoming season, these additions provide renewed optimism and additional storylines for fans following the club’s efforts to contend in 2026.
