Cubs gamble on fading MLB footnote in risky new reclamation project

Classic Jed Hoyer signing.
Sep 18, 2023; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Kyle Wright (30) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Sep 18, 2023; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Kyle Wright (30) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

When the Chicago Cubs announced their non-roster invites to spring training earlier this week, the impression was that a few more names could be added to the list in the near future. As the Cubs continue their search for pitching depth, their latest minor-league signing provides the coaching staff with a new reclamation project.

The Cubs have signed former Atlanta Braves first-round pick Kyle Wright to a minor-league deal that includes an invite to spring training. A fun note on Wright is that he is surprisingly MLB's latest 20-game winner.

In 2022, Wright tallied 21 victories while posting an ERA of 3.19 in 30 starts. He was 26 at the time, and appeared to be on the ascent toward being one of the better pitchers in the National League.

The problem with Wright in 2022 is that he pitched with no regard for his shoulder. The right-hander tossed a tick over 180 innings, and it outpaced his previous output at any level of Atlanta's system.

Wright only made 9 starts in 2023 before undergoing surgery to repair a torn capsule in his throwing shoulder, and he missed the entire 2024 season as part of his recovery. He was working his way back to the major league level, this time with the Kansas City Royals, in 2025, before suffering a setback during his minor-league rehab assignment.

MLB’s last 20-game winner just landed with the Cubs in the team's latest spring training gamble

When Wright was last healthy in 2023, he wasn't close to matching the results he posted in 2022. He posted an ERA of 6.97 before the injury to his shoulder.

If Wright is healthy, the Cubs are always going to take a gamble that their pitching infrastructure is capable of reviving careers. Not every story will be a success, like Brad Keller's last year, but that won't stop the Cubs from taking a swing and looking for the next Keller.

Wright is facing an uphill climb in terms of making the Opening Day roster, but he figures to be potential insurance for the pitching staff during the regular season.

In recent days, it's felt like the Cubs were falling behind in the bidding for Zac Gallen, so the front office may have turned their attention to reclamation projects like the former Braves pitching star.

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