Former Cubs pitching prospect re-ups with the Yankees on a minor-league deal

There was one big story that had Chicago Cubs fans attention last winter: the acquisition of All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker. So you're forgiven if you missed the trade that sent infielder-turned-pitcher Michael Arias to the New York Yankees in January.

Chicago designated him for assignment and the Yankees sent cash considerations back to the Cubs in exchange for the lanky right-hander, who spent the 2024 season split between Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa, posting above-average strikeout numbers that were overshadowed by major control issues - which has always been, and continues to be, the question with Arias.

Now, Arias is re-joining the Yankees on a minor-league deal, looking to build on the progress he made last season.

Former Cubs pitching prospect seemed to make progress in 2025

Last year in the Yankees' system, Arias seemed to take a step in the right direction. The walk rate was still uncomfortably high (6.4 BB/9), but he punched out more than 27 percent of batters he faced and finished the year with a 2.73 ERA in 23 appearances, which included three starts and 10 games finished.

Until he really dials in that control piece, he's probably not a viable big-league option for the Yankees - and given he's only been pitching since 2021 after converting to the mound, there's still time for him to figure things out. He's still young, too, heading into his age-24 season in 2026.

In his minor league career, Arias has pitched only 36 1/3 innings at the Triple-A level, and even at Double-A, he's got just 45 frames under his belt. If he can spend next year fully healthy and get some bulk innings in the upper levels of the minors, he stands a chance at cracking the Yankees' MLB roster in 2027 as a bullpen arm.

We all know Chicago's track record when it comes to trading young relievers with upside - so Cubs fans are rightfully a little anxious about Arias. Only time will tell if he'll join the likes of Jeremiah Estrada, Manuel Rodriguez and other arms who have left the organization, only to blossom into late-inning weapons with new teams.