Overview
- Both clubs confirmed the deal on Monday, June 15, 2026, with the Cubs sending cash and a minor‑league player to Seattle for 28‑year‑old Yosver Zulueta.
- Chicago immediately optioned Zulueta to Triple‑A Iowa and cleared a 40‑man spot by designating lefty Doug Nikhazy for assignment.
- Zulueta has MLB experience with the Cincinnati Reds (5.32 ERA in 23 2/3 innings) and has been moved several times after prior DFA transactions.
- Scouts prize Zulueta’s upper‑90s fastball and swing‑and‑miss stuff but his control is the main concern, shown by a 16.3% walk rate and 5.75 ERA in 20.1 Triple‑A innings this year and a roughly 13.9% minor‑league walk rate overall.
- The Cubs view the move as a low‑risk, high‑upside bet that gives them depth now and a possible short‑term big‑league option later if coaching can fix his command.