The Chicago Cubs are bringing back right-handed pitcher Gabe Klobosits, who spent the 2026 season at Triple-A. On paper, it’s far from an exciting signing, but the 6-foot-8, hard-throwing reliever certainly has a chance to force his way into the 2027 bullpen after a strong year with the Iowa Cubs.
Klobosits signed a minor league deal with the Cubs last offseason. He appeared briefly in spring training before being assigned to the Iowa Cubs. The righty spent a short time on the injured list in April, then was sidelined for two months in the middle of the regular season. Overall, in 2026, Klobosits posted good results: a 3.51 ERA, a 26.9% K rate, and only two home runs in 33.1 innings.
The 31-year-old has previously reached the major leagues once with the Washington Nationals. Klobosits made his MLB debut in 2021. He got only a cup of coffee in the big leagues, posting a 5.56 ERA in 11.1 innings.
So, why should the career journeyman even be on your radar heading into the 2027 season? Well, Klobosits does have the makings of a solid arm in the bullpen.
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First, the frame is great and intimidating, with Klobosits listed at 6’8 and 254 pounds. Second, he has the fastball velocity fans have demanded for years. The right-hander was able to top out at 98mph in August with the Iowa Cubs, getting some praise from his Triple-A manager, Marty Peavy.
Via Tommy Birch.
Klobosits, 31, has been steady for the Iowa Cubs, compiling a 4.32 ERA with 29 strikeouts across 25 innings. During the team’s Aug. 11 game against the St. Paul Saints at the Field of Dreams Movie Site, Klobosits showcased a fastball that topped out at 98.5 mph.
“I’m not saying he’s a big-league closer but he’s got closer stuff,” said Iowa manager Marty Pevey.
Klobosits never got the call-up from the Cubs in 2026, but they clearly liked what they saw and quickly acted, re-signing the right-handed pitcher to a minor-league deal. As with every offseason, the Cubs have to put as many lines in the water and hope one hits. A few years ago, it was Brad Keller, and this past season, Ryan Rolison became a bullpen stud.
We’ll see if Klobosits can take advantage of another look from the Cubs, who will continue to bring in several relief pitchers heading into 2027.
