The Chicago Cubs have welcomed right-hander Michael Fulmer back to their pitching staff, having selected his contract and optioned Nate Pearson to Triple-A Iowa. This move comes as the team looks to bolster its bullpen in the midst of a challenging schedule, with 11 consecutive games ahead.
Fulmer, 32, previously played with the Cubs in 2023, where he had a 4.42 ERA across 57 innings in 58 appearances, contributing two saves before a season-ending elbow injury. After undergoing ulnar collateral ligament revision surgery, he signed a minor-league deal with the Boston Red Sox for the 2024 season. He made one major league appearance with Boston, allowing three runs in 2.2 innings before being designated for assignment.
Back with the Cubs on a minor-league deal, Fulmer turned in an impressive performance with the Iowa Cubs, showing a significant improvement with a 2.96 ERA in 24.1 innings and a remarkable 32% strikeout rate over 15 appearances.
Meanwhile, Pearson, who was recently called up, struggled during his outing against the Seattle Mariners, surrendering five earned runs in just two innings, leading to a staggering season ERA of 12.66.
Fulmer’s return offers manager Craig Counsell a potent right-handed option in a bullpen that has shined lately, boasting a league-best 2.09 ERA since mid-May. This addition is especially pertinent as the Cubs aim to rebound following a tough series against the Mariners that saw the bullpen yield 15 runs over 12 innings.
Notably, Fulmer was named the American League Rookie of the Year in 2016, showcasing his potential with a 3.06 ERA during his rookie season with the Detroit Tigers. After transitioning to a relief role in 2021, he has maintained a career ERA of 3.53 across 178.1 innings as a reliever, highlighting his capability to contribute significantly in high-pressure situations.
This move signifies both a strategic adjustment for the Cubs and an opportunity for Fulmer to reclaim a prominent role in the major leagues, offering hope for a successful second half of the season.