The Chicago Cubs made a move to bolster their bullpen on Monday, acquiring right-handed reliever Tyson Miller from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for infielder Jake Slaughter, according to sources who spoke to ESPN. The news was originally reported by Jeff Passan in a tweet:
“Trade news: The Chicago Cubs are acquiring right-handed reliever Tyson Miller from the Seattle Mariners for infielder Jake Slaughter, sources tell ESPN. Miller was recently DFA’d and will join the Cubs in the big leagues. He has been good: 3.09 ERA, 12-to-1 K-to-BB in 11.2 IP. “
Trade news: The Chicago Cubs are acquiring right-handed reliever Tyson Miller from the Seattle Mariners for infielder Jake Slaughter, sources tell ESPN.
Miller was recently DFA’d and will join the Cubs in the big leagues. He has been good: 3.09 ERA, 12-to-1 K-to-BB in 11.2 IP.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) May 14, 2024
This trade comes as a bit of a surprise, as Miller was recently designated for assignment by the Mariners. However, the Cubs are clearly in need of bullpen help, and Miller’s recent performance suggests that he could be a valuable addition to their relief corps. His performance caught the attention of the Cubs, who needed bullpen reinforcements.
Tyson Miller’s Impressive Stats
In 11.2 innings pitched this season, Miller has a very respectable 3.09 ERA. He has also been effective at striking out batters, racking up 12 strikeouts while only issuing one walk. This impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio (12:1) is a strong indicator of Miller’s ability to control the zone and limit baserunners.
Filling a Need in the Chicago Bullpen
The Cubs’ bullpen has been one of their weaker areas this season. They entered Monday with a bullpen ERA of 4.23, which ranked 22nd in Major League Baseball. The addition of Miller should help to improve that mark.
Miller’s ability to throw strikes and generate strikeouts will be especially valuable for the Cubs. The team has struggled to put away hitters at times this season, and Miller’s presence should help to shorten games and give the Cubs a better chance to win.
Slaughter, a 24-year-old infielder, is a former second-round pick of the Cubs. He has yet to make his major league debut, but he has been a solid performer in the minor leagues. The Mariners are clearly hoping that Slaughter can develop into a major league contributor in the future.
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