Cubs Sign Veteran Left-Hander Caleb Thielbar to One-Year Deal

The Chicago Cubs have made a strategic addition to their bullpen by signing left-handed pitcher Caleb Thielbar to a one-year Major League contract. Thielbar, who turns 38 in January, brings a wealth of experience to the Cubs' roster.

Thielbar's journey in professional baseball has been nothing short of remarkable. Chicago will be the seventh MLB team Thielbar has been associated with since he was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 18th round of the 2009 draft. Despite this well-traveled career, all of Thielbar's 320 Major League innings over eight seasons have been with the Minnesota Twins. His time with the Twins came in two distinct stints: first from 2013-15, and then again from 2020-24.

The second stint with the Twins was particularly noteworthy, as it represented a revival of Thielbar's career. After the 2019 season, he had taken a coaching job at a college, seemingly stepping away from playing. However, the Twins offered him a minor league deal, and Thielbar seized the opportunity to make a comeback, reestablishing himself as a reliable arm in their bullpen.

The signing of Thielbar adds depth and experience to the Cubs' pitching staff. His track record of success, particularly in his recent years with the Twins, suggests that he can be a valuable asset in both middle relief and situational matchups against left-handed hitters.