Cubs Add Veteran Reliever Hoby Milner in Early Offseason Move

After their 2025 playoff run ended at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLDS, the Chicago Cubs are making early offseason moves to strengthen their roster for a deeper postseason push. One of the more understated additions came Thursday with the signing of reliever Hoby Milner.

Milner, a 34-year-old right-hander entering his 10th MLB season, agreed to a one-year contract with the Cubs, according to reports from The Athletic’s Britt Ghiroli. The signing adds experience and depth to Chicago’s bullpen as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.

Milner has spent time with several organizations, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels, and Milwaukee Brewers. Most recently, he pitched for the Texas Rangers in 2025, logging a career-high 70.1 innings, demonstrating durability and versatility in relief roles.

With a career 3.82 ERA, 1.265 WHIP, and 321 strikeouts, Milner is expected to serve as a long or middle reliever, given his limited experience in closing situations. Chicago views him as a stabilizing presence who can handle high-leverage innings when needed.

1. Milner’s Career and Role

Hoby Milner debuted in 2017 with the Phillies before being traded to the Rays in 2018. Over the next several seasons, he developed into a reliable bullpen arm capable of handling multiple innings. Milner spent four seasons with the Brewers, gaining postseason experience and proving his ability to pitch in high-pressure situations. His tenure in Milwaukee helped refine his control and consistency, key attributes that the Cubs hope will translate to success in Chicago. In 2025 with Texas, Milner set a personal best for innings pitched, demonstrating durability that will be valuable for a bullpen looking to absorb workload from inexperienced arms. While not a traditional closer, his skill set allows flexibility in matchup-based deployments. The Cubs view Milner’s signing as a low-risk, high-reward move. At 34, he provides experience without commanding a large contract, offering a veteran presence for younger pitchers in the bullpen.

2. Cubs’ Offseason Activity

Chicago has been active in offseason rumors and trade chatter. Among the headlines, the Cubs have been linked to starting pitcher Zac Gallen as they look to strengthen their rotation for 2026. There has also been speculation about potential trades involving second baseman Nico Hoerner, though sources suggest such a move remains unlikely. The organization seems focused on targeted additions rather than a broad overhaul. The Cubs are also monitoring the free-agent market closely. Outfielder Kyle Tucker remains a possibility to return to Chicago, but competition is expected to be stiff given his status as one of the top available outfielders. These early moves, including Milner’s signing, indicate the Cubs are balancing incremental improvements with strategic opportunities in both free agency and trades. The front office appears committed to building depth and flexibility as they aim for sustained postseason competitiveness.

3. Bullpen Outlook and Strategy

The addition of Milner strengthens a Cubs bullpen that will likely rely on a mix of veterans and younger arms. His experience in various roles gives the coaching staff multiple options in shaping late-inning strategy. Chicago hopes Milner’s durability and proven command can stabilize innings that might otherwise fall to less experienced pitchers. His ability to absorb multiple frames will be particularly valuable in games where starters struggle or in high-leverage situations. Combined with existing arms, Milner’s presence allows the Cubs to approach 2026 with a deeper and more versatile relief corps. The organization is prioritizing both consistency and flexibility in its bullpen strategy. As the offseason progresses, additional moves may be made to complement Milner and ensure Chicago is equipped to compete against top NL Central rivals.