Chicago Cubs DFA Pitcher Despite Strong Career Numbers

March 19, 2025

The Chicago Cubs have designated right-hander Keegan Thompson for assignment, clearing a roster spot for top prospect Matt Shaw, who will start at third base on Opening Day in Tokyo. 

The move is a change in the Cubs’ roster construction, prioritizing fresh talent over a once-promising arm. Thompson, 30, now faces an uncertain future as he enters waivers, where the Cubs have seven days to trade, release, or outright him to Triple-A Iowa if he goes unclaimed. 

Given his past success as a multi-inning reliever, there’s a chance another team takes a flyer on him.

Thompson had his moments in Chicago, posting a 3.64 ERA with 225 strikeouts over 227.1 career innings, but injuries and inconsistency derailed his development. 

After flashing potential as a shutdown reliever in 2022, he struggled in 2023 with a 4.71 ERA, though he bounced back last season with a 2.67 ERA in 30.1 innings. 

However, his 14.2% walk rate and lack of minor league options made him expendable. “It feels like just yesterday that he and Justin Steele were coming up to Chicago as two hot-shot young pitching prospects,” Michael Cerami of Bleacher Nation wrote, reflecting on the decision. “But here we are.”

With Thompson out, the Cubs enter Opening Day against the Los Angeles Dodgers with a revamped roster that includes Matt Shaw, who slashed .284/.379/.488 across Double-A and Triple-A last year. 

The team also placed Javier Assad (left oblique strain) on the 15-day IL and optioned Daniel Palencia to Triple-A Iowa.

Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | NHL Rumors