Cubs Sign Relievers Eli Morgan and Matt Thaiss

Former MLB pitcher Cole Irvin has signed a one-year contract with the Doosan Bears in the KBO for $1 million, the maximum for first-year foreign players, after a disappointing stint with the Orioles and Twins. Despite a solid performance in 2021-2022 with the Oakland A's, Irvin struggled in 2024, leading to his designation for assignment and decision to pursue a career revival in Korea. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs have been active in reshaping their roster ahead of the non-tender deadline, having recently acquired reliever Eli Morgan and catcher Matt Thaiss. The Cubs are expected to let go of several players, including Nick Madrigal, who has underperformed since joining the team. The Cubs aim to bolster their bullpen, which had a rough start to the 2024 season, and Morgan's addition is part of this effort. The team's president, Jed Hoyer, has committed to enhancing depth in the bullpen after acknowledging previous shortcomings.