Cubs acquire pitching help in trade with Mariners

Sep 14, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs batting helmet sits on the dugout rail before the Cubs play the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs shored up their pitching staff with a move on Monday.

The Cubs traded for Seattle Mariners right-handed reliever Tyson Miller in exchange for infielder Jake Slaughter, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.

Trade news: The Chicago Cubs are acquiring right-handed reliever Tyson Miller from the Seattle Mariners for infielder Jake Slaughter, sources tell ESPN.

Miller was recently DFA’d and will join the Cubs in the big leagues. He has been good: 3.09 ERA, 12-to-1 K-to-BB in 11.2 IP.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) May 14, 2024

Miller made nine appearances for the Mariners this season before being designated for assignment. The 28-year-old had a solid 3.09 ERA with 12 strikeouts in 11.2 innings pitched.

The Cubs’ starting rotation has been exceptional through 42 games with a collective 3.15 ERA, which ranks third in the majors.

However, Cubs pitching as a whole has only been slightly above average this season. The team ranked 12th with a collective 3.78 ERA entering Monday’s contests. Their bullpen has weighed down the pitching staff. Through 42 games, Cubs relievers recorded a bloated ERA of 4.61 — 24th in the majors.

Adding Miller won’t solve all of the team’s problems. But it’s a clear indication that the Cubs are looking to shore up their weaknesses amidst a strong 24-18 start to the 2024 season.