Kyle Wright, Major League Baseball’s latest pitcher to reach 20 wins in a single season, has signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs, including an invitation to spring training camp. The 30-year-old right-hander is currently working out in Mesa, focusing on a return to the majors after missing all of the 2024 season due to shoulder surgery. Wright, previously a starter for the Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Royals, is aiming to bounce back from his injury setbacks.
Impressive 2022 Season Highlights Wright’s Career
Wright’s career stands out because 21 of his 24 total MLB wins came in the 2022 campaign. That year, he recorded a 21-5 record over 30 starts, pitching more innings than in any other season combined. His earned run average (ERA) of 3.19 that season was significantly better than his overall career average, marking 2022 as a breakout year. Wright’s fastball averaged just over 95 mph during this peak period, though it declined to about 93.3 mph in 2023, likely due to lingering effects of his shoulder injury.
Evolution of Wright’s Pitching Arsenal
One of Wright’s notable adjustments was the substantial increase in use and velocity of his knuckle curveball starting in 2022. Traditionally a secondary pitch, Wright elevated his curveball to be his primary weapon, raising its usage from under 15% in prior seasons to over 34% in 2022, and then above 47% during his 31 innings pitched in 2023. Velocity on the curve rose from roughly 81 mph to between 84 and 85 mph, a change that suggests modifications in grip or pitching approach. His knuckle curve, thrown from a low three-quarter arm slot, has a slurvy movement rather than a classic 12-6 break typical of other curveballs.
In addition to his curve, Wright’s fastball behaves more like a sinker, featuring less ride and more lateral arm-side run, while his actual sinker generates heavy groundballs. His changeup also carries significant weight, contributing to his groundball tendencies during recent seasons.
Cubs’ Low-Risk Opportunity with Potential Upside
The deal represents minimal risk for the Cubs given its minor league status. Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer’s enthusiasm for Wright is likely linked to the pitcher’s potential to regain mid-90s velocity, supported by his age and past performance. If Wright fully recovers, he could become an important depth option at the Triple-A Iowa level. The unpredictable nature of the baseball season means that an opportunity might arise for him to reestablish himself in the major leagues and add more wins to his record.
What This Signing Means for Chicago Cubs and Wright’s Future
Wright’s signing offers the Cubs a chance to bolster pitching depth with a player who has demonstrated elite potential when healthy. Although uncertain how quickly Wright can return to form after shoulder surgery, his proven talent from recent years gives the organization hope for a positive contribution. His presence at spring training in Mesa will be closely watched as he attempts to recapture the performance that made him a standout in 2022.
Given the physical demands of a pitching role and Wright’s injury history, many expect that the Cubs will manage his innings carefully while assessing his readiness. Still, should Wright regain his prior form, he may prove a valuable asset both on and off the field throughout the season.
Kyle Wright to the Cubs. Minors deal with MLB camp invite. Wright is the majors’ last 20-game winner.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 10, 2026
