In a move that’s sure to shake up the bullpen, the Chicago Cubs have inked a one-year deal with right-handed reliever Jacob Webb, according to an exclusive AP source. But here’s where it gets intriguing: the contract includes a club option for 2027, hinting at a potential longer-term strategy for the team. The deal, first reported by a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, is pending a physical—a standard step that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Webb, a seasoned 32-year-old veteran, hit the free-agent market last month after the Texas Rangers opted not to offer him a contract through arbitration. His lone season with the Rangers was nothing short of impressive, boasting a 5-4 record and a stellar 3.00 ERA across 55 appearances. But this isn’t Webb’s first rodeo—he’s compiled a 17-14 record with a 2.99 ERA over six major-league seasons, splitting time between Atlanta, the Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore, and Texas. Oh, and did we mention he snagged a World Series ring with the Braves in 2021? Talk about a résumé booster.
The Cubs, fresh off their first postseason appearance since 2020, have been hard at work reshaping their bullpen this offseason. But here’s the part most people miss: while they’ve said goodbye to free agents like Brad Keller and Drew Pomeranz, they’ve also made some savvy moves to fill the gaps. Earlier this month, they re-signed left-hander Caleb Thielbar to a $4.5 million, one-year deal, ensuring stability in the pen. They didn’t stop there—left-hander Hoby Milner joined the ranks on a one-year contract, and right-hander Phil Maton was locked in for two years.
Here’s the controversial question: Is Jacob Webb the missing piece the Cubs need to make a deeper playoff run, or is this just another bullpen experiment? With his track record and the team’s recent moves, it’s hard not to feel optimistic. But baseball is unpredictable, and only time will tell. What do you think? Is this a game-changer for the Cubs, or just another offseason shuffle? Let us know in the comments!
