The Chicago Cubs, currently leading the National League Central with a 18-13 record, have made a move to address their pitching depth, particularly in the bullpen, by signing right-handed pitcher Tommy Romero to a minor league contract. This decision comes amidst a series of injuries to key Cubs pitchers, including Shota Imanaga, Justin Steele, and Javier Assad, leaving the team in need of reliable arms to support their major league staff.
Romero’s Minor League Track Record
Tommy Romero, a 27-year-old right-hander, brings a consistent and impressive minor league resume to the Cubs organization. Drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 15th round of the 2017 MLB draft, Romero has steadily progressed through the minor league ranks. Throughout his minor league career, he has amassed a 55-25 record with a solid 3.08 ERA and 651 strikeouts over 652.1 innings pitched.
Notably, Romero had a strong showing with the San Francisco Giants’ Triple-A affiliate, the Sacramento River Cats, in 2024, posting a 4-1 record with a 3.14 ERA in 19 appearances (8 starts) and 66 strikeouts in 71.2 innings. This recent success in a hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League suggests that Romero’s skills could translate well to the major league level if given the opportunity.
Major League Experience and Recent Struggles
Romero has limited major league experience, having pitched for the Tampa Bay Rays and Washington Nationals in 2022. In four MLB appearances, including two starts, he recorded a 1-1 record with a 10.80 ERA. While his major league numbers are not indicative of his minor league success, the Cubs are likely banking on his track record in the minors and his recent performance in Triple-A as signs of his potential.
Prior to signing with the Cubs, Romero played in the Mexican League for the Guerreros de Oaxaca in 2025, where he struggled in two starts, posting a 7.27 ERA. However, the Cubs’ scouting department apparently saw enough in his past performances to offer him a minor league deal.
Role and Impact on the Cubs’ Bullpen
Romero is not expected to immediately join the major league roster. Instead, he will likely report to the Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate in Iowa, providing much-needed depth in their pitching ranks. With Cade Horton and Chris Flexen recently promoted to the MLB team, there are open spots in the Triple-A rotation, which Romero could potentially fill.
While he may be low in the pecking order initially, Romero’s addition provides the Cubs with a valuable option should further pitching injuries occur during the season. His experience as both a starter and a reliever in the minors offers versatility, and if he performs well in Triple-A, he could work his way into consideration for a major league call-up later in the year.
Low-Risk, High-Reward Move for the Cubs
The signing of Tommy Romero represents a smart, low-risk move for the Chicago Cubs. By adding a pitcher with a solid minor league track record on a minor league deal, the Cubs have bolstered their organizational depth without committing significant resources. For Romero, this deal offers another opportunity to prove himself and potentially earn another chance to pitch in the major leagues.
