Cubs Sign Local Prospect Sam Mettert to Minor League Deal

The Chicago Cubs, fresh off a 2025 season that saw them return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020, are quietly adding pieces to maintain their competitive edge. One such move came with the signing of right-handed pitcher Sam Mettert to a minor league contract, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers.

Mettert, a native of Chicago, played his college baseball at St. John’s University, graduating in 2025. He also trained at Tread Athletics, where scouts noted he could reach 98 mph on the mound—a factor that likely drew the Cubs’ attention.

During his two years at St. John’s, Mettert posted a 7.17 ERA with a 51/33 strikeout-to-walk ratio. While those statistics are underwhelming on the surface, the Cubs appear to believe in his raw talent, particularly his high velocity, as a foundation for development.

For Mettert, signing with his hometown team is a dream opportunity. He opted to forgo graduate school to pursue professional baseball, embracing the challenge of proving himself in the minors while aiming to eventually make an impact at the major league level.

1. Potential and Challenges

Mettert faces a steep climb to reach the majors. His college numbers suggest issues with command and run prevention, which the Cubs will closely monitor as he adapts to professional hitters. It is not yet clear whether Mettert will begin in Single-A or Rookie ball, but the organization will likely start him at the lower levels to gauge how his velocity and pitching arsenal translate. Developing control and consistency will be critical. Scouts are intrigued by his arm strength, but success in professional baseball depends on more than just speed—it requires precision, pitch sequencing, and the ability to handle opposing lineups over multiple innings. The Cubs will provide coaching and support, hoping to harness his potential while gradually addressing areas of improvement. Patience will be key as Mettert works to refine his skills and adjust to the professional game.

2. Hometown Advantage

Signing with the Cubs is particularly meaningful for Mettert, a Chicago native who now has the opportunity to chase his dreams in front of a home crowd. This connection may also provide additional motivation as he navigates the challenges of minor league development. Mettert’s decision to forgo graduate school highlights his commitment to baseball and the risk-reward nature of pursuing a professional career. The Cubs’ investment in him reflects both his raw talent and the organization’s belief in his potential. While the road to the majors is uncertain, Mettert’s velocity and upside make him a prospect worth watching. If he can develop his control and harness his abilities, he could become a valuable piece of the Cubs’ pitching depth in the coming years. Chicago fans may not notice this signing immediately, but it represents the kind of long-term talent cultivation that can pay dividends down the line.

3. Long-Term Outlook

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The Cubs see Mettert as a project with significant upside, and the organization is taking a patient approach to his development. While immediate contributions at the major league level are unlikely, consistent progress in the minors could eventually make him a viable option in the bullpen or rotation. Mettert’s arm strength and high velocity give him a foundation that could be molded into a dominant pitch mix over time. If he can harness his secondary pitches and improve his command, he may evolve into a valuable mid-rotation starter or high-leverage reliever. The Cubs’ player development staff has experience turning raw arms into productive major leaguers, and Mettert will benefit from that expertise as he adjusts to professional baseball. Monitoring his adaptation to minor league hitters will be crucial in assessing his long-term potential. Ultimately, the signing reflects the Cubs’ commitment to building depth from within, supplementing their current roster with young talent that could contribute in meaningful ways in the coming seasons.