### Cubs Reinforce Bullpen by Re-Signing Veteran Reliever Caleb Thielbar The Chicago Cubs have made a strategic move to bolster their bullpen by re-signing left-handed reliever Caleb Thielbar to a one-year contract worth $4.5 million. This decision comes after a successful season for Thielbar, who posted a 2.64 ERA in 67 appearances, contributing significantly to the Cubs' playoff run. With the departure of key relievers Brad Keller and Drew Pomeranz to other teams, Thielbar's return is crucial for maintaining the team's competitive edge in the upcoming season. Notably, his contract includes a mutual buyout option for 2027, which could extend his tenure with the Cubs beyond the upcoming season [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/details_of_caleb_thielbars_new_cubs_contract/s1_17090_43220721][https://www.smdailyjournal.com/sports/chicago-cubs-finalize-4-5-million-1-year-contract-with-left-hander-reliever-caleb-thielbar/article_b6ca01c4-9b0d-5bf8-9a16-75a842d7a75a.html]. ### Breakdown of the Cubs' Contract with Thielbar 1. **Contract Details**: - Thielbar signed a **one-year contract** valued at **$4.5 million**. - The contract includes a **$500,000 mutual buyout option** for 2027, allowing flexibility for both the player and the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/details_of_caleb_thielbars_new_cubs_contract/s1_17090_43220721]. 2. **Performance Metrics**: - In the **2025 season**, Thielbar achieved a **2.64 ERA** and a **3.00 FIP** over **67 appearances**. - He held left-handed batters to a **.161 batting average** and a **.486 OPS**, showcasing his effectiveness against lefties [https://apnews.com/article/cubs-thielbar-contract-83b736cb0f60ca255dc15ab41a29ba05][https://www.thescore.com/mlb/news/3429389/report-cubs-re-sign-thielbar-on-1-year-deal]. 3. **Team Context**: - The Cubs are looking to maintain a strong bullpen after losing two key relievers, with Thielbar's return being a pivotal part of their strategy for the **2026 season**. - The addition of Thielbar complements other recent signings, including left-hander Hoby Milner, who also joined the Cubs this offseason [https://www.freedom969.com/national-sports/report-cubs-set-to-re-sign-lhp-caleb-thielbar][https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/chicago-cubs/cubs-news-agree-reunion-veteran-reliever-strengthen-bullpen]. ### Supporting Evidence of Thielbar's Impact - **2025 Season Performance**: - **ERA**: 2.64 - **Innings Pitched**: 58 - **Strikeouts**: 25.5% strikeout rate - **Walk Rate**: 5.9% [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/cubs_to_re_sign_caleb_thielbar/s1_13237_43212921][https://www.espn.co.uk/mlb/story/_/id/47326191/sources-cubs-bring-back-left-handed-reliever-caleb-thielbar]. - **Postseason Performance**: - Thielbar did not allow a single run in **5 postseason appearances**, further solidifying his value to the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/details_of_caleb_thielbars_new_cubs_contract/s1_17090_43220721]. ### Conclusion: Thielbar's Re-Signing is a Strategic Win for the Cubs In summary, the Chicago Cubs' decision to re-sign Caleb Thielbar is a **strategic move** aimed at reinforcing their bullpen for the upcoming season. His impressive performance metrics from the previous season, combined with the flexibility offered by the mutual buyout option, position him as a key asset for the Cubs as they aim for success in the **2026 season**. The Cubs are not only retaining a reliable reliever but also ensuring they have the depth needed to compete effectively in the National League Central [https://www.smdailyjournal.com/sports/chicago-cubs-finalize-4-5-million-1-year-contract-with-left-hander-reliever-caleb-thielbar/article_b6ca01c4-9b0d-5bf8-9a16-75a842d7a75a.html][https://www.thescore.com/mlb/news/3429389/report-cubs-re-sign-thielbar-on-1-year-deal].