Hoby Milner Signs with Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have made a move to bolster their bullpen, signing veteran left-hander Hoby Milner to a one-year contract. The deal, confirmed by sources, is worth a guaranteed $3.75 million, with additional performance-based incentives. Michael Cerami of Bleacher Nation was the first to report the agreement.
This signing gives the Cubs a much-needed and distinctive arm in their relief corps. Milner, represented by MVP Sports Group, brings a unique, side-winding delivery that has proven effective against both left-handed and right-handed hitters throughout his career.
What Hoby Milner Brings to the Cubs Bullpen
Hoby Milner, a 34-year-old survivor who has established himself as a trustworthy middle-relief option, is more than simply a journeyman. His vintage, quirky, low-slot delivery creates deception that throws hitters off balance. His fastball is in the high 80s, so he won’t blow batters away with high velocity, but his skill and pitch movement make him a challenging opponent.
Hoby Milner relies heavily on his sweeping slider, a pitch he threw over 35% of the time in 2024. Opponents struggled against it, hitting just .232. His four-seam fastball, despite its modest velocity, was even more effective, holding batters to a paltry .154 average. This pitch mix makes him a valuable weapon for manager Craig Counsell, who is known for his strategic use of bullpen arms.
The signing adds a different look to a bullpen that often relies on power. While he may not be slotted into a consistent high-leverage setup role, Milner provides a dependable option for the 6th or 7th innings and is particularly adept at neutralizing dangerous left-handed bats.
A Look at Milner’s Career Journey
Hoby Milner’s journey to Wrigleyville is evidence of his tenacity. Before joining the Cubs, he played for five different clubs after being selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the seventh round of the 2012 draft out of the University of Texas. He played with the Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, and, most recently, the Texas Rangers after making his Phillies debut in 2017.
His most successful season came in 2023 with the Brewers, where he posted a stellar 1.82 ERA. In 2024 with the Rangers, he continued to be a workhorse, logging 70.1 innings with a respectable 3.84 ERA and 58 strikeouts. His ability to stay healthy and take the ball consistently is a significant asset for any bullpen.
He is reunited with his former Milwaukee boss, Counsell, who clearly values Milner’s consistency and distinct skill set. Unlocking his full potential in Chicago might depend on this familiarity. The signing is a wise, calculated move that expands the Cubs’ pitching staff and adds a layer of deceit that might pay off over the course of the lengthy season, even though it might not be the huge bargain some fans were looking for
