MESA, Ariz. — Early in spring training, the Chicago Cubs are already planning for the future by moving to finalize a contract with experienced reliever Shelby Miller. Sources confirmed on Friday that the Cubs are negotiating a two-year deal worth $2.5 million with the 35-year-old right-hander, who is expected to miss significant time due to offseason elbow surgery.
Miller, who underwent surgery on his pitching elbow during the offseason, faces an uncertain 2026 season as he begins recovery, with a full return unlikely unless his rehab accelerates. This move signals the Cubs’ interest in securing Miller’s services for 2027 and beyond despite his current unavailability.
Injury Complications and Recent Performance History
Last season, Miller was emerging as a key reliever, boasting a 1.98 ERA and recording a career-high 10 saves during 37 appearances for the Arizona Diamondbacks. His breakout performance positioned him as a valuable asset heading into the MLB trade deadline.
However, injury issues curtailed his impact. A forearm injury sidelined him weeks before the trade deadline, delaying his availability. Despite this, the Milwaukee Brewers acquired Miller to strengthen their bullpen for a playoff push, competing closely with the Cubs for the top record in the National League Central.
Miller made 11 appearances for the Brewers before landing on the injured list again due to a damaged ulnar collateral ligament. This injury echoes the severity that requires Tommy John surgery, which previously altered his pitching career trajectory.
Shelby Miller’s Career Evolution and Cubs Connection
Drafted in the first round in 2009, Shelby Miller initially made his mark as a starting pitcher, earning an All-Star selection in 2015. His career took a new direction following Tommy John surgery in 2017, which shifted his role from starters’ rotation to bullpen duties. Over time, he transformed from a swingman to a reliable middle-inning reliever, eventually becoming a trusted late-inning arm.
Miller’s journey has included brief stints with the Cubs; in 2021, he appeared in only three games for Chicago, struggling with performance and allowing seven runs across two innings. Despite that rough patch, his recent success with Arizona and Milwaukee highlights his potential value when healthy.
Noteworthy Visitors and Activities at Cubs Spring Training
The Cubs’ spring training complex recently played host to a notable visitor: Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley. Wearing a Cubs cap and green tracksuit, Barkley was seen riding a golf cart between fields alongside Cubs legend Rick Sutcliffe and Baseball Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins.
Manager Craig Counsell shared about his conversation with Barkley, saying,
“It was great. He’s wonderful. Wonderful heart. I think that’s the thing that sticks out most. He’s a big deal.”
The visit added a sense of excitement and camaraderie during camp.
Heavy Workload During Live Batting Practice
Camp’s busiest day for live batting practice was Friday, featuring seven pitchers throwing to hitters on the back fields. Among them was Jaxon Wiggins, one of the Cubs’ top pitching prospects, taking in the first big-league camp experience.
Manager Counsell highlighted the value of camp for younger players:
“First big-league camp, this is a camp for him to learn, listen, pick things up [and] improve routines from watching older players who have had a lot of success go about their business. Set up a good foundation for the future, set up a good foundation for the season and go from there.”
World Baseball Classic Participants Prepare to Depart
The Cubs announced that most players taking part in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) are expected to leave the spring training camp by February 28 to join their national teams. Thirteen members of the Cubs organization, including eight on the 40-man roster, are participating in the tournament.
Notable exceptions include outfielder Seiya Suzuki, representing Japan, and non-roster invitee first baseman Jonathon Long from Chinese Taipei. Suzuki is scheduled to depart earlier on February 23 for the Tokyo-based pool play, while Long is also expected to travel a few days ahead of the general WBC camp departures.
Outlook on Miller’s Role and Cubs’ Future Plans
Acquiring Shelby Miller despite his recent surgery underscores the Cubs’ commitment to bolstering their bullpen for the future. When healthy, Miller has demonstrated an ability to influence high-pressure situations, making him a valuable asset in late innings.
While the 2026 season remains uncertain for Miller, the Cubs’ willingness to invest in him for two years suggests they believe his rehabilitation will restore his effectiveness. This decision also reflects their strategic focus on building depth and experience within the pitching roster as they aim for sustained competitiveness.
With spring training underway, the Cubs continue to balance veteran acquisitions with the development of promising young pitchers like Wiggins, while also managing the departure of key players for international competition. All these elements contribute to an atmosphere of cautious optimism and anticipation for the seasons ahead.
Source confirms the Cubs are working toward a multi-year deal with reliever Shelby Miller, as @ByRobertMurray first reported. It's a move for the future – Miller is set to miss most or all of the 2026 season after undergoing offseason elbow surgery.
— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) February 13, 2026
