The Chicago Cubs have reclaimed versatile infielder Ben Cowles off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays, marking the third time Cowles has returned to the Cubs’ organization in recent months. To create space on the 40-man roster for Cowles, the Cubs moved right-handed pitcher Shelby Miller to the 60-day injured list.
Cowles, 26, has experienced an unusual back-and-forth journey between teams. Originally traded from the Yankees to the Cubs at the 2024 deadline, Cowles was designated for assignment (DFA) in September, claimed by the White Sox, then reclaimed by the Cubs in January before being DFA’d again in February to make room for Miller. After the Blue Jays claimed Cowles, Chicago took advantage of roster openings caused by Max Scherzer’s Green Light return to bring Cowles back ahead of the regular season.
Ben Cowles’ Versatility and Speed as Key Assets
Though Cowles has yet to make his major league debut, his minor league performance reveals a player with appealing defensive flexibility but limited offensive impact. Selected by the Yankees in the tenth round, Cowles carries a .235/.299/.368 slash line over 536 Triple-A plate appearances.
Cowles’ primary value comes from his ability to cover multiple infield positions—shortstop, second base, and third base—and even spot appearances in the outfield. His speed is notable, with 70 stolen bases in 92 attempts during his minor league career, making him an attractive candidate for a utility role on the bench.
The Cubs appear to view Cowles as a depth piece with potential. At 26 years old, the prospect’s offensive production has yet to break through, but his defensive versatility and speed keep him in consideration as organizational insurance. Cowles may not be an immediate offensive threat, but his adaptability and base-running skills align with the Cubs’ needs.
Chicago’s Strategy to Build Roster Depth for 2026 and Beyond
This roster move fits into the Cubs’ wider plan to deepen their talent pool as they prepare for a strong 2026 campaign. With new lineup leader Alex Bregman and hopes for a healthy pitching rotation led by Justin Steele, Chicago is focusing on bolstering support players who can step in when needed.
Cowles is unlikely to make the Opening Day roster but offers valuable insurance throughout the long season. His speed and defensive flexibility could earn him a role as a September call-up or injury replacement, helping the team navigate inevitable roster changes.
While Cowles may face additional roster uncertainty if the Cubs need more space, he returns to Wrigleyville determined to prove himself and earn his chance at the majors. His winding journey illustrates the unpredictable path many players take on the road to the big leagues.
For Cubs fans, this move highlights the subtle roster management that often goes unnoticed but proves crucial over time. Although it lacks the immediate excitement of headline-making players like Bregman, adding dependable depth pieces such as Cowles is a foundational step toward sustained success in a demanding season.
