Miller’s two-year, $2.5 million deal with the Cubs was officially announced on February 15, and Cowles was named for the assignment to create roster space. The Jays claimed Cowles off waivers, but the infielder now quickly finds himself back in the Cubs organization. There was no indication that Toronto had DFA’ed Cowles, but the Blue Jays now had to clear a spot on their 40-man roster. Max Scherzer returns to the team.
Cowles, a 10th-round pick for the Yankees in the 2021 draft, first came to Chicago at the 2024 trade deadline, when Cowles was one of two prospects dealt to the Cubs. Mark Leiter Jr. Cowles was granted DFA status last September and claimed waivers from the White Sox, but the Cubs recalled Cowles from their local rivals in January on a new claim.
Despite all this coming and going, Cowles has yet to make his Major League debut. The 26-year-old put up decent numbers in the lower minors, but hit just .235/.299/.368 over 536 plate appearances at the Triple-A level. The lack of offense has certainly contributed to Cowles’ apparent status as a 40th-man type, although he has speed (70 steals in 92 attempts in the minors) and plenty of experience as a shortstop, second and third baseman, plus a few cameo appearances in the outfield.
It wouldn’t be a shock to see Cowles land in DFA limbo again the next time the Cubs need to create a 40-man opening, but the team clearly sees some value in the infielder’s skillset. Whether this translates into some time on the active roster remains to be seen, as Cowles may only be considered for a call-up if an injury occurs to a regular on the field.
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