Back in 2021, the Chicago Cubs traded Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants for a package of two players. Those promising prospects were outfielder Alexander Canario and right-handed pitcher Caleb Kilian. Five years later, neither Canario or Kilian remain in the Cubs organization as Canario was designated for assignment last winter and recently Kilian became a free agent, where he elected to sign back with the Giants.
Ex-Chicago Cubs pitcher Caleb Kilian back in San Francisco Giants organization
Chicago Cubs pitcher Caleb Kilian celebrates with teammates fater leaving the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the third inning at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
From 2022 to 2024, Kilian logged just 27.1 innings at the major league level, with injuries repeatedly stalling his progress and limiting his availability in the minors. especially over the past two seasons. Those setbacks prompted a move to the bullpen, but the transition didn’t yield results, as he struggled to a 7.47 ERA across 15.2 innings last year.
Now seemingly healthy after spending most of the 2025 season rehabbing and rebuilding strength, Kilian is heading back to San Francisco. The Giants originally selected him in the eighth round of the 2019 MLB Draft, and while this reunion comes via a minor league deal, it gives him a chance to work his way back to the majors.
Kilian’s return is a classic low-risk, upside play for San Francisco. Still just 27, he offers plenty of upside as a reclamation project. If the organization can afford patience, allowing him to rebuild command and confidence in the minor leagues, while evaluating whether relief or a multi inning role suits him best, would be best for him going forward.
For Kilian, the reunion provides familiarity, opportunity, and motivation. If his health finally cooperates, a strong minor league showing could quickly put him back on the radar as depth for a pitching staff that values versatility and long-term upside potential.
Cubs fans dealt bad news amid frustrating MLB offseason
Read More
For More Great Chicago Sports Content
Get the latest Chicago sports news, analysis, and breaking stories on the Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs, White Sox, Sky, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News, so you never miss a story on your favorite Chicago teams.
Follow us on Twitter at @chicitysports23 for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Chicago sports news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE