The Chicago Cubs’ (92-70) last season didn’t do much to improve their roster at the trade deadline, which cost them a chance to go deep in the playoffs and led to a loss to their divisional opponent, the Milwaukee Brewers, in the National League Wild Card round, 3-2.
More News: Former Chicago Cubs slugger could be signing with a divisional foe
The Cubs acquired two arms, right-hander Brandon Kittredge from the Baltimore Orioles, and Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals, as well as utility player Willi Castro from the Minnesota Twins. All added depth to the roster, but Soroka got injured a few days after his acquisition, costing him some time and limiting him to six appearances.
Now in the offseason, the Cubs don’t appear to be bringing back their swingman, as Soroka will be taking his talents to the desert.
Former Chicago Cubs right-hander Michael Soroka signs with the Diamondbacks
Aug 4, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Michael Soroka (41) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
With the Winter Meetings going on in Orlando, and there being quite a few intriguing starting pitchers who could hold up the market, Soroka didn’t waste time finding a home for himself in 2026, signing a one-year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers and Jeff Passan.
News: Free agent pitcher Mike Soroka is in agreement with the Diamondbacks on a 1-year deal, pending a physical, sources tell me and @JeffPassan.
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) December 8, 2025
Soroka, 28, went 3-8 with a 4.52 ERA in 22 games (17 starts) between the Nats and the Cubs, and led the National League with 15 hit batters in 89.2 innings. According to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic/azcentral sports, the deal is worth $7.5 million, and Soroka can make another $2 million in bonuses.
Soroka can make another $2 million in bonuses. He will slot into the Diamondbacks’ rotation.
— Nick Piecoro (@nickpiecoro) December 8, 2025
Michael Soroka adds depth to the Diamondbacks’ rotation
Oct 4, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Michael Soroka (99) pitches against the Milwaukee Brewers during the second inning of game one of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
With their Ace Corbin Burnes unlikely to be ready and rejoin the rotation in July, adding Soroka as a depth piece who can fill innings and move to the bullpen when Burnes returns.
Soroka joins a depleted rotation, which has lost right-hander Zac Gallen to free agency, and is unlikely to re-sign with the team. Possibly their third or fourth option behind right-handers Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson, and left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez, Soroka could be a good trade piece for the Diamondbacks, depending on how they perform.
Aug 4, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Michael Soroka (41) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
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