The Chicago Cubs continue to bolster their bullpen as they announce the signing of veteran reliever Shelby Miller to a multi-year contract, reported by FanSided’s Robert Murray. At 35 years old, Miller faces a challenging road ahead, as he is expected to miss a significant portion, if not the entirety, of the 2026 season while he recuperates from Tommy John surgery.
In the first half of the previous season, Miller showcased his skills with a remarkable 1.98 ERA over 36 1/3 innings while pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, after being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, his participation dwindled to just two appearances before he was sidelined due to injury. Joining Miller in the Cubs’ revamped bullpen are new additions Phil Maton, Hunter Harvey, Jacob Webb, and Hoby Milner, further enhancing the team’s pitching depth this offseason.
Miller is recovering from the second Tommy John surgery of his career, having previously undergone the procedure in 2017. The veteran considered retirement after his initial diagnosis last year, but his determination to succeed remains strong, especially after he emerged as a significant leverage option with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023. Originally selected in the first round of the 2009 MLB Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals, Miller’s journey has been marked by ups and downs, including his pivotal role in the trade that sent Dansby Swanson to Atlanta in 2015. At that time, he was coming off an impressive All-Star season but struggled with injuries thereafter.
His career came under threat after a challenging stint with the Cubs in 2021, where he allowed seven runs in just two innings during his sole appearance. However, resurgence with the Dodgers showcased his potential, making his signing an intriguing move for the Cubs as they look toward the future. Given the nature of his injury, it is unlikely that Miller will see action in 2026; this signing appears to be a forward-looking strategy aimed at making him a valuable asset in 2027, when he will be 36 and well removed from his standout debut with the Cardinals.
The Cubs’ decision to bring in Miller not only reflects their commitment to improving their roster but also highlights the resilience athletes often demonstrate in overcoming setbacks. With the right recovery, Miller’s experience and past performance could play a pivotal role in the Cubs’ plans down the line.