Cubs Sign 8-Year Veteran Versatile Pitcher

The Chicago Cubs have added to their pitching depth by signing right-hander Adrian Houser to a minor league deal. 

Houser, 31, began the 2024 season with the New York Mets, struggling in the starting rotation with an 8.16 ERA over six starts. 

However, his performance significantly improved when he was moved to the bullpen, where he posted a 3.41 ERA across 31.2 relief innings. 

Despite his recovery in relief, the Mets released Houser at the end of July to clear roster space for returning injured pitchers.

SIGNED: #Cubs have signed RHP Adrian Houser to a minor-league contract.

— MLB Transaction Tracker (@MLBMovesTracker) August 7, 2024

Houser’s addition provides the Cubs with pitching depth amid injuries to several key players, including Ben Brown, Jordan Wicks, and Hayden Wesneski. 

Known for his ability to generate ground balls and limit walks, Houser has a history of being an effective swingman, primarily with the Milwaukee Brewers from 2015 to 2023, where he maintained a 4.00 ERA over 539.1 innings. 

In his debut for the Cubs' Triple-A affiliate Iowa, Houser pitched 2.2 innings, allowing two runs on four hits and striking out three batters. 

The Cubs plan to stretch him out, preparing him as a potential fill-in starter or a multi-inning reliever for the major league roster.

The Cubs signed pitcher Adrian Houser today (under the radar!) and he just went 2.2 innings at Triple-A. Pitching depth for the rest of the season.

Houser was released by the Mets last week and spent the last six years with Counsell on the Brewers.

— Locked On Cubs (@LockedOnCubs) August 7, 2024

This signing reunites Houser with his former manager Craig Counsell, now managing the Cubs, potentially setting the stage for a productive stint in Chicago. 

The Cubs' rotation, featuring Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Javier Assad, and Kyle Hendricks, is currently stable but requires experienced depth due to the ongoing injury issues. 

Houser's familiarity with Counsell and his demonstrated capability as a versatile pitcher make him a nice addition to the Cubs' roster as they push for a playoff spot.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports