Blue Jays Claim Versatile Pitcher Off Waivers From Cubs

The Toronto Blue Jays have claimed versatile reliever José Cuas off waivers from the Chicago Cubs. 

Cuas, who was designated for assignment by the Cubs last week to make room for Ethan Roberts on the 40-man roster, now joins the Blue Jays' bullpen. 

His season with the Cubs saw him shuttling between the major league team and Triple-A Iowa, reflecting his role as a flexible bullpen option.

Jays have claimed reliever Jose Cuas from the Cubs and optioned him to AAA.

Cuas has struggled this year at MLB & AAA but had ERA of 3.99 and 3.58 in MLB bullpens last 2 years.

Lower-velocity sinker-sweeper guy. Decent whiff rate but generally hard contact & too many walks.

— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) June 23, 2024

Cuas appeared in nine games for the Cubs this season, posting a 7.43 ERA with 14 strikeouts and six walks over 13.1 innings. 

Despite his struggles, his performance in the previous season was promising, as he managed a 3.04 ERA in 27 games after being traded from the Kansas City Royals. His ability to adapt and deliver solid innings could provide a valuable boost to the Blue Jays' relief corps.

ROSTER MOVE:

🔹 We’ve claimed RHP Jose Cuas off waivers from the Cubs and optioned him to Triple-A pic.twitter.com/3A18RVFSoU

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) June 23, 2024

Originally an infielder, Cuas transitioned to pitching in 2018 and has since developed a distinctive sidearm delivery. 

This journey has taken him through independent leagues and minor league systems before landing major league roles with the Royals and Cubs. With the Blue Jays, Cuas will have the opportunity to stabilize his performance and contribute to their bullpen depth.

Photo Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports