After eight seasons with the Minnesota Twins, the Cubs have revealed the signing of left-handed reliever Caleb Thielbar on a one-year contract. Thielbar, known for his effectiveness against left-handed hitters and his ability to leave runners stranded, joins the team with a strong career record. At 37 years old, he brings extensive experience and reliability to the Cubs’ bullpen.
Cubs Sign Caleb Thielbar
Thielbar’s MLB career as a reliever began in 2013 when he debuted at the age of 26. His rookie season was outstanding, as he delivered a remarkable 1.76 ERA, 0.826 WHIP, and an impressive 233 ERA+ across 46 innings, establishing himself as one of the league’s most effective relievers. In his sophomore season, Thielbar remained a dependable bullpen option, appearing in 54 games. While his ERA and WHIP increased slightly to 3.40 and 1.406, respectively, he continued to excel in high-pressure situations, maintaining a solid 116 ERA+.
Recently, Thielbar has continued to prove his worth as a veteran reliever for Minnesota. Although injuries limited his 2023 season, he still managed an impressive 3.23 ERA over 30.2 innings. His standout performance came from his excellent command, boasting a 0.946 WHIP, 36 strikeouts, and just six walks. While 2023 showcased his resilience post-injury, 2024 brought new challenges. In 59 appearances—the second-highest total of his career—his ERA rose to 5.32, and he issued a career-high 24 walks. Despite these setbacks, Thielbar maintained a strong 10.1 K/9 rate, striking out 53 batters and demonstrating his ability to remain a strikeout threat.
Bullpen Impact
Thielbar brings extensive knowledge and experience to the Cubs, making him a valuable asset for their bullpen. Over his career, he has consistently limited left-handed hitters to low batting averages and OPS, making him an excellent choice for high-leverage situations against lefties. Additionally, with a decade of MLB experience, Thielbar provides veteran leadership, offering guidance to younger pitchers on refining their mechanics and approach to the game. While the challenges he faced in 2024 may reflect the wear and tear of a long career at 37, his resilience and durability in recent seasons highlight his ability to remain effective. This makes Thielbar a smart addition to the Cubs’ pitching staff.
