The Chicago Cubs placed veteran right-handed pitcher Shelby Miller on the 60-day injured list (IL) over the weekend, anticipating he will miss the entire 2026 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. To fill his spot on the 40-man roster, the Cubs recalled utility infielder Ben Cowles, who has rejoined the team for a second time this offseason.
Background on Ben Cowles’ Journey Between Teams and Rosters
The Cubs initially acquired Ben Cowles at the 2024 MLB trade deadline in exchange for relief pitcher Mark Leiter Jr., sending him to the New York Yankees. At the time of the trade, Cowles was injured, but the Cubs hoped he would develop into a useful utility player during the 2025 season. However, after a less impactful performance at the Triple-A level last year, Cowles was designated for assignment near the end of the season.
Following that designation, Cowles spent the final part of the season with the Chicago White Sox before returning to the Cubs early in the offseason. Although Cowles was designated for assignment again at the start of spring training to clear space for Miller on the 40-man roster, the Cubs had to add Miller to the roster first before moving him to the 60-day IL as part of their procedural moves.
Cowles’ Recent Stint with Toronto Blue Jays and Return to Cubs Roster
Cowles also had a brief two-week period with the Toronto Blue Jays during spring training but did not record a hit in nine plate appearances before he was designated for assignment and returned to the Cubs. Despite his inconsistency, Cowles remains a valuable infield depth option for Chicago in 2026 and still has two minor-league options available, allowing the Cubs flexibility with his movement between major and minor leagues.
Roster Implications and Team Depth at Triple-A Iowa
The Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate, Iowa, currently lacks strong infield depth, making Cowles a potentially important option for filling gaps in case of injuries at the major league level. While Cowles’ early promise has dimmed, his ability to serve as a versatile, shuttle player between the minors and the majors could prove useful during the 2026 campaign as the Cubs navigate Miller’s extended absence due to Tommy John surgery recovery.
Today's roster moves presented by @NuveenInv: pic.twitter.com/rIRM4s3SFG
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 1, 2026
