The Chicago Cubs are actively working this offseason to position themselves as serious contenders for the top of the National League Central division. While recent moves have aimed at immediate improvements, their newest addition targets future bullpen depth.

Reports indicate that the team is close to finalizing a multi-year contract with veteran right-handed reliever Shelby Miller, as first noted by Robert Murray of FanSided.

Miller, now 35 years old, brings a level of familiarity to the Cubs organization. He briefly pitched for Chicago in 2021 during a transitional phase of his career. That stint was challenging, highlighted by one outing where he allowed seven runs across just two innings.

Over the years, he has also opposed the Cubs while suiting up for division rivals including the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Milwaukee Brewers.

A key detail in this agreement is its multi-year structure, which accounts for Miller’s current health status. The pitcher will not take the mound at all during the 2026 campaign as he rehabilitates from recent elbow surgery. This procedure, performed on October 20, marks the second time Miller has undergone ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, with the initial surgery dating back to May 2017.

Miller’s career trajectory shifted dramatically in recent seasons after struggling as a starter earlier in his tenure. In 2025, he signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks and reinvented himself in a relief role, quickly becoming a reliable option in their bullpen. During his time with Arizona, Miller delivered impressive results, posting a 1.98 ERA and securing 10 saves.

Unfortunately, setbacks interrupted what had been a strong comeback year. Miller landed on the injured list in July with a forearm strain while still in Arizona.

Later, following a trade to the Milwaukee Brewers—while he remained sidelined—he returned for 11 appearances before suffering a significant elbow injury. The issue culminated in the need for another UCL reconstruction, extending his recovery timeline and pushing him into free agency at a time when many high-caliber relievers had already signed elsewhere.

Once healthy, Miller offers the Cubs a high-velocity option from the bullpen. His four-seam fastball averaged 95.1 MPH, complemented by substantial movement that made it difficult for hitters to square up. Batters managed only a .235 average and .296 slugging percentage against that pitch during his effective stretches.

This signing aligns with Chicago’s broader bullpen strategy. The team recently added Hunter Harvey on a one-year contract to serve as a setup man leading into closer Daniel Palencia. With Harvey set to reach free agency again after the current season, bringing in Miller creates a potential long-term internal solution for late-inning duties.

Committing to Miller involves accepting a year without his on-field contributions. The October surgery eliminates any possibility of him appearing in 2026 games, including postseason scenarios if the Cubs qualify. Nevertheless, the multi-year pact enables the organization to oversee his rehabilitation process directly and integrate him smoothly when ready.

The projected recovery path has Miller completing rehab in time to join full preparations for Spring Training in 2027. At that point, Chicago envisions him competing for meaningful high-leverage innings. The front office remains confident in his ability to deliver as a valuable reliever, justifying the investment in a player who will sit out an entire season.

From a roster management perspective, the move is low-risk in the short term. The Cubs can place Miller on the 60-day injured list upon finalizing the deal, freeing up a 40-man roster spot without impacting active roster construction during 2026.

This approach allows flexibility while securing a proven arm for the following year.