Wed Jan 07 20:10:00 UTC 2026: # Cubs Bolster Bullpen with Rolison Claim Amid Cabrera Trade Rumors

The Story

The Chicago Cubs have claimed left-handed reliever Ryan Rolison off waivers from the White Sox. This move comes as the Cubs are reportedly nearing a trade for Miami Marlins pitcher Edward Cabrera. Rolison, a former first-round pick by the Rockies in 2018, struggled in his debut season with Colorado but offers a potentially valuable left-handed option for the Cubs’ bullpen. His addition brings the Cubs’ 40-man roster to 37 players.

Key Points

  • The Cubs claimed left-handed reliever Ryan Rolison from the White Sox.
  • Rolison was the Rockies’ first-round pick (22nd overall) in 2018.
  • His MLB debut season with the Rockies resulted in a 7.02 ERA and a 1.772 WHIP.
  • The Cubs are also reportedly close to acquiring Edward Cabrera from the Marlins.
  • Rolison pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless ball vs. the Cubs on May 28, 2025.

Critical Analysis

The Cubs’ interest in both Rolison and Cabrera suggests a strategic effort to deepen their pitching staff. Claiming Rolison off waivers provides a low-risk opportunity to potentially revitalize a former top prospect, while pursuing a trade for Cabrera indicates a willingness to invest in higher-upside talent. Given Rolison’s past struggles, the Cubs likely view him as a project, hoping to leverage his left-handedness and past pedigree.

Key Takeaways

  • The Cubs are actively seeking to improve their pitching depth through both waiver claims and trades.
  • Ryan Rolison represents a low-risk, high-reward acquisition with potential upside if the Cubs can unlock his talent.
  • The team is prioritizing left-handed pitching options, possibly to create bullpen balance.
  • The move for Rolison could be a precursor to further roster adjustments as the Cubs finalize their roster.
  • The potential acquisition of Edward Cabrera highlights a broader effort to acquire quality arms.

Impact Analysis

The immediate impact of claiming Rolison is relatively minor, as he will likely compete for a spot in the bullpen or serve as depth in the minor leagues. However, if Rolison can improve his performance under the Cubs’ coaching, he could become a valuable contributor. The potential acquisition of Edward Cabrera would have a more significant long-term impact, potentially bolstering the Cubs’ rotation or high-leverage bullpen roles. The team’s overall strategic direction appears to be focused on bolstering pitching, which is crucial for sustained success in a competitive league.

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