CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs pulled off a major shock at the 2025 MLB Winter Meetings by securing a one-year contract with defensive lineman Hoby Milner, marking one of the team’s most significant moves this offseason.
According to multiple reliable sources, Milner — the 34-year-old left-fielder — has agreed to a one-year contract worth $3.75 million plus bonuses to join the Cubs’ bullpen.
This is a major addition to the Chicago roster as they strive to strengthen their team after a season that left fans with high hopes.
The Cubs had a relatively quiet offseason before this deal came along — despite making the playoffs for the first time since 2020 and clearly having areas for improvement, particularly in the bullpen.
The Milner trade is the most tangible response from the Cubs’ management as the Winter Meetings season draws to a close.
Before Milner arrived, the Cubs had signed Phil Maton — another well-known shooter — but adding Milner provides the team with more bullpen depth, especially with someone who knows how to neutralize left-handed shots.
Milner is no stranger to MLB. In nine seasons, he has a career ERA of 3.82, spanning games from the Phillies, Rays, Angels, Brewers to Rangers.
Notably, he previously played under Craig Counsell, now the Cubs’ coach, when both were with the Milwaukee Brewers from 2021–2023 — a period when Milner was at his peak with an ERA of just 1.82 in 73 games.
That result makes his reunion with Counsell in Chicago deeply emotional and full of expectations: Milner is not only an experienced shooter, but also a strategic asset capable of making crucial saves — something the Cubs desperately need in every competitive season.
The Cubs are in the process of rebuilding their bullpen after losing several key players. Brad Keller, Drew Pomeranz, and Caleb Thielbar are all no longer with the team after leaving as free agents.
Therefore, Milner’s arrival is seen as both a morale boost and a tactical advantage for Chicago.
With rivals in the NL Central like the Brewers, Cardinals, and Reds growing stronger, strengthening the bullpen is a top priority for the team to protect their lead and win close games. Milner, with his sidearm shooting style and strong left-handed ball control, is the piece many believe will help the Cubs turn things around in tight games.
News of Milner’s arrival in Chicago immediately caused a stir on social media. Some fans expressed skepticism because Milner’s performance is no longer at the elite level of 2023, but the vast majority welcomed the decision as a bold move by management after a relatively quiet offseason.
One fan commented on Twitter: “Having Milner in the bullpen gives the Cubs more confidence when leading in the final quarter.” This shows the community’s desire for stability and experience—something Milner can bring.
The signing of Milner is a significant signal that the Cubs aren’t just playing it safe. They’re looking for experienced and adaptable players, aiming for a more competitive season in a league full of strong teams like the Dodgers, Braves, and Phillies.
Milner won’t just be a backup shooter—he could become a bullpen icon for the Cubs in the 2026 season, where every point, every quarter, can decide the team’s fate.
Leave a Reply