Cubs DFA pitching prospect Michael Arias to make Colin Rea's signing official
In order to make right-hander Colin Rea’s signing official Monday, the Cubs designated pitching prospect Michael Arias for assignment.Rea’s one-year deal is worth $5 million, a source confirmed, and it includes a club option for 2026. The veteran could provide depth for the Cubs both at the back end of the rotation and in the bullpen.Arias, 23, was the Cubs’ No. 18 prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. The Cubs added him to the roster after the 2023 season to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.He had a unique route to the upper levels of the minor leagues. Originally a shortstop, Arias signed with the Blue Jays as an amateur free agent out of the Dominican Republic in 2018. But he never appeared in an official game for the club, who released him in 2020.Arias landed in the Cubs organization the next year, signing a minor-league deal, this time as a pitcher. His unconventional position change paid off. He reached Triple-A late last May. Arias posted a 5.45 ERA at that level, serving primarily as a late-inning reliever.After designating Arias for assignment, the Cubs have a week to trade him or put him on waivers.
In order to make right-hander Colin Rea’s signing official Monday, the Cubs designated pitching prospect Michael Arias for assignment.
Rea’s one-year deal is worth $5 million, a source confirmed, and it includes a club option for 2026. The veteran could provide depth for the Cubs both at the back end of the rotation and in the bullpen.
Arias, 23, was the Cubs’ No. 18 prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. The Cubs added him to the roster after the 2023 season to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.
He had a unique route to the upper levels of the minor leagues. Originally a shortstop, Arias signed with the Blue Jays as an amateur free agent out of the Dominican Republic in 2018. But he never appeared in an official game for the club, who released him in 2020.
Arias landed in the Cubs organization the next year, signing a minor-league deal, this time as a pitcher. His unconventional position change paid off. He reached Triple-A late last May. Arias posted a 5.45 ERA at that level, serving primarily as a late-inning reliever.
After designating Arias for assignment, the Cubs have a week to trade him or put him on waivers.
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