The Chicago cubs have added infielder Ben Cowles to their roster, claiming him off waivers from the White Sox, the team announced. This move comes just one week after the White sox designated Cowles for assignment when they claimed catcher Drew Romo off waivers from the Mets.
A Familiar Face Returns to Wrigleyville
Cowles is back with the Cubs after a brief stint with their cross-town rivals.
- Cowles was originally acquired by the Cubs in a trade involving Mark Leiter Jr.
- The 25-year-old has yet to appear in a major league game.
- He provides infield depth for the Cubs, especially with the recent signing of Alex Bregman.
- Cowles split the 2025 season between the Triple-A affiliates of both Chicago teams.
This isn’t the frist time Cowles has been with the Cubs. They initially designated him for assignment in September. He arrived in Chicago as part of the deal that sent pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. to the New York Yankees.The White Sox quickly claimed him,but his time on the South Side proved short-lived.
Did you know?-Ben Cowles was initially acquired by the Cubs in exchange for pitcher Mark Leiter Jr., who was than sent to the Yankees. This waiver claim marks the third team Cowles has been associated with in a short period.
Why did this happen? The Cubs claimed Cowles to bolster their infield depth, particularly after signing veteran Alex Bregman. The White Sox designated him for assignment after acquiring Drew Romo, creating an open roster spot. Who is involved? The key players are Ben cowles, the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago White Sox, Drew Romo, Mark Leiter Jr., and Alex Bregman. What was the outcome? Cowles returns to the Cubs institution after a brief period with the White Sox. How did it end? the White Sox waived Cowles,and the Cubs successfully claimed him off waivers.
What kind of player are the Cubs getting? Cowles, 25, is still looking for his first opportunity in the majors. In 2025,he played at the Triple-A level for both Chicago organizations,posting a combined slash line of .235/.300/.371 with nine home runs, 18 stolen bases, a 7.2% walk rate, and a 28.8% strikeout rate. Scouts view him as a defensively capable shortstop who can also play second and third base, possibly filling a valuable utility role.
Pro tip-Waiver claims are often about upside and potential. Cowles’ ability to play multiple infield positions makes him a valuable depth piece for any team, even if he doesn’t instantly contribute at the major league level.
Despite a challenging 2025, Cowles showcased his potential in 2024, hitting .286/.372/.457 with nine home runs and 14 stolen bases in 92 games at the Double-A level.
While his 2025 numbers weren’t stellar, his performance in 2024 offers a glimpse of his upside. He retains two minor league option years, giving the Cubs flexibility. The recent addition of Alex Bregman has already shifted Matt Shaw into a utility role, suggesting Cowles will likely begin the season with the Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate in Des Moines – assuming he remains with the organization through spring training.
Worth a look
