Pomeranz back with Cubs
Cubs promote veteran Drew Pomeranz to bullpen, optioning Jordan Wicks to Triple-A
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Key Points
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Pomeranz's 2026 stint with the Angels included a 5.01 ERA over 23.1 innings in 25 relief appearances, with elbow inflammation that contributed to his mid-June release before the Cubs signed him to a minor-league deal.
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Jordan Wicks had four relief appearances for the Cubs this season, delivering two saves and allowing one run in those four innings, before being optioned to Triple-A Iowa. He previously logged 10 1/3 innings with a 10.45 ERA in this stretch.
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Pomeranz's 2025 Cubs season was standout: a 2.17 ERA with a 1.067 WHIP over 57 appearances (49.2 innings), including 14 holds and a save, marking one of his healthiest and most productive campaigns.
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There was an opening on the Cubs' 40-man roster to add Pomeranz, and the move resulted in a full 40-man roster without requiring an additional roster adjustment.
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Observers view the reunion of Pomeranz with the Cubs as a potential stabilizing factor for a bullpen that has struggled, building on the Cubs’ success with him in 2025.
The Chicago Cubs are bringing back left-hander Drew Pomeranz for a second stint in their bullpen, recalling him from Triple-A Iowa and optioning Jordan Wicks to make room, according to Washington Post. The 37-year-old Pomeranz was released by the Los Angeles Angels in mid-June after a rough 2026 campaign, then signed a minor-league deal with Chicago.
The move fills a bullpen spot without any extra roster shuffling. The Cubs now carry a full 40-man roster, with an existing opening that made Pomeranz's return straightforward, WTOP reported.
Pomeranz Bounces Back After Angels Struggle
Pomeranz's time with the Angels in 2026 was rough. He posted a 5.01 ERA over 23.1 innings in 25 relief appearances. Elbow inflammation added to his troubles and ultimately led to his release in mid-June, according to Washington Post.
The Cubs quickly signed him to a minor-league deal. After working through Triple-A Iowa, he is now back on the big-league roster. Chicago is betting that the version of Pomeranz from 2025 — not 2026 — shows up this time.
Pomeranz's 2025 Cubs Season Was One of His Best
Pomeranz was one of Chicago's most reliable arms in 2025. He posted a 2.17 ERA with a 1.067 WHIP over 57 appearances and 49.2 innings, according to WTOP. He also recorded 14 holds and one save — one of the healthiest and most productive stretches of his career.
That track record is why the Cubs came back to him. The bullpen has struggled to find stability, and the front office is hoping a familiar face can steady the group. His prior success in Chicago gives the reunion real credibility.
Jordan Wicks Heads to Iowa After Short Relief Stint
To make room for Pomeranz, the Cubs optioned Jordan Wicks to Triple-A Iowa. Wicks had four relief appearances this season, going two-for-two in save chances and allowing just one run in four innings, according to Washington Post.
Wicks also logged 10.1 innings earlier in the season with a steep 10.45 ERA. The Cubs are resetting his role by sending him back to Triple-A. His strong save work in relief may earn him another shot later in the year.
Cubs Bullpen Gets a Familiar Left-Handed Arm
The Cubs are playing well and are seen as a top postseason contender in 2026, according to Sporting News. Keeping the bullpen sharp is a priority. Adding a proven left-handed reliever like Pomeranz gives manager Craig Counsell another weapon in high-leverage spots.
The Cubs had an open spot on their 40-man roster, so the move required no additional cuts or trades. It was a clean addition. Observers see the reunion as a low-risk, high-reward bet on a veteran who has already shown he can thrive in Chicago.
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