Cubs Acquire Righty Yosver Zulueta From Mariners in Minor Move

The Chicago Cubs have acquired right-handed pitcher Yosver Zulueta from the Seattle Mariners in a trade that sends cash considerations to the Pacific Northwest. The deal was finalized after the Cubs designated left-hander Doug Nikhazy for assignment to make room for Zulueta on Chicago’s 40-man roster.

Zulueta, 28, joins the Cubs after being designated for assignment by the Mariners earlier this week. The right-hander was previously DFA’d by the Reds in January 2025 and claimed by Seattle in a trade. The move marks the third time in 12 months Zulueta has changed teams following a DFA. Originally signed by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2019 as an international free agent, Zulueta was claimed by Cincinnati in March 2024 before making his major league debut.

Zulueta’s recent performance has been mixed. In 20 1/3 innings at Triple-A Tacoma this season, he posted a 5.75 ERA with a 16.3% walk rate and a 21.4% strikeout rate. His ground ball rate remains a positive at 56.9%, but his .339 BABIP has inflated his numbers. Over his minor league career, Zulueta has struggled with control, posting a 13.93% walk rate in 254 1/3 innings. His MLB experience includes a 5.32 ERA in 23 2/3 innings over two seasons with the Reds.

The Cubs are betting on Zulueta’s high-90s fastball and live arm to help bolster a strained bullpen. Nikhazy, the player sent to the 40-man limbo, will likely be traded or outrighted. The move gives Chicago a chance to test a potential solution to Zulueta’s control issues without much risk.

Zulueta’s acquisition is a low-cost, high-upside gamble for the Cubs. The Mariners, meanwhile, retain flexibility and cash while moving a DFA asset. With the Cubs’ bullpen dealing with injuries, Zulueta could see action in the coming weeks if he passes a physical and clears waivers.

The Cubs are expected to announce Zulueta’s official roster status by Friday.