Cubs Close to Finalizing Agreement with Shelby Miller
The Chicago Cubs are in the final stages of securing a multi-year contract with right-handed pitcher Shelby Miller. This agreement comes as Miller is expected to miss the entire 2026 season due to recent UCL and flexor surgeries performed in mid-October. The contract is likely to be backloaded, allowing Miller to rehabilitate with the Cubs during the 2026 season and aim for a return to the bullpen in 2027.
Career Overview of Shelby Miller
Shelby Miller, 35, has experienced an unconventional career trajectory since being drafted in the first round in 2009. He quickly rose as a top prospect with the St. Louis Cardinals and was a finalist for the NL Rookie of the Year award in 2013. Miller had a brief but impactful tenure with the Cardinals before being traded to the Atlanta Braves in the 2014-2015 offseason, in a deal that included Jason Heyward.
Key Trades and Career Highlights
- 2013: Finished third in NL Rookie of the Year voting.
- 2015: Achieved 33 strong starts with the Braves in a breakout season.
- Traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in a significant deal that involved top prospects like Dansby Swanson.
Challenges and Comeback Attempts
Miller’s time with Arizona was marred by injuries, leading to a disappointing 6.35 ERA over three seasons. Following a series of unsuccessful stints across various teams, he began to reestablish himself as a reliable late-inning reliever. In 2025, Miller returned briefly to the D-backs, performing well before facing further health challenges.
Recent Performance Metrics
In the past three seasons, Miller has demonstrated significant improvement:
- ERA since Opening Day 2023: 3.13
- Strikeout rate: 25.3%
- Walk rate: 8.2%
- Combined saves and holds: 30 (13 saves and 17 holds)
Injury Setbacks and Future Prospects
Last offseason, Miller signed a one-year contract with the D-backs and excelled with an impressive 1.98 ERA over 36 1/3 innings. However, his season was cut short due to a forearm injury, leading to a trade to the Milwaukee Brewers while on the injured list. After a brief stint, he sustained further elbow issues, ultimately requiring Tommy John surgery.
Looking Ahead
As Miller approaches his 36th birthday in October, he will begin his recovery from the second UCL reconstruction of his career. He is set to join the Cubs’ 40-man roster once the agreement is finalized, transitioning to the 60-day injured list to make room for additional roster moves as needed. By spring training in 2027, Miller is expected to be 16 months post-surgery, aiming for a solid comeback.
