Cubs acquire Drew Pomeranz to bolster struggling bullpen
- The Chicago Cubs traded cash to acquire left-handed pitcher Drew Pomeranz from the Seattle Mariners.
- Pomeranz, a veteran reliever, has not played in a Major League game since 2021.
- The Cubs are aiming to improve their struggling bullpen after a slow start to the season.
On April 21, 2025, the Chicago Cubs made a significant roster move by acquiring left-handed pitcher Drew Pomeranz from the Seattle Mariners. This trade included a cash exchange and was viewed as an attempt to strengthen the team's bullpen, which struggled at the beginning of the season with a 5.19 bullpen ERA. Drew Pomeranz, aged 36 and a veteran reliever, had not pitched in a Major League game since the 2021 season, raising questions about his current performance level. Following the trade, the Cubs announced that Pomeranz would report to their Triple-A affiliate, Iowa. However, he attended a game at Wrigley Field just after the trade, showcasing the organization’s confidence and eagerness for his integration into the team. The Cubs were sitting atop the NL Central standings at 14-10 at the time, but their bullpen issues prompted the move to secure Pomeranz, who had prior success in a similar role with the Milwaukee Brewers under the guidance of Cubs manager Craig Counsell. Pomeranz's past statistics reflect a mixed career with a 3.91 ERA across 289 games, having played for several teams, including the Athletics and the Red Sox, and being a first-round draft pick by the Cleveland Indians. In addition to the acquisition of Pomeranz, the Cubs also welcomed infielder Nicky Lopez to their roster in a series of transactions that aimed to solidify their team structure amidst injury concerns. The Cubs shifted left-hander Justin Steele to the 60-day injured list, impacting their starting rotation depth, while also designating infielder Gage Workman for assignment. These moves underscore the pressure the Cubs face to maintain their status as contenders in a competitive division while addressing roster weaknesses. Overall, the addition of Drew Pomeranz marks a strategic decision aimed at improving pitching depth as the Cubs navigate their early season challenges. Given the volatility in their bullpen performance, the franchise is keen on turning around its fortunes before the season progresses further.