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![Feb 19, 2026; Dunedin, FL, USA;] Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ben Cowles (20) fields a ground ball during spring training at Bobby Mattick Training Center at Englebert Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,x_0,y_36,w_3009,h_1692/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/9/01kjq8q9chappwvnb56f.jpg "Feb 19, 2026; Dunedin, FL, USA;] Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ben Cowles (20) fields a ground ball during spring training at Bobby Mattick Training Center at Englebert Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images")
The Chicago Cubs placed Shelby Miller on the 60-day IL over the weekend, considering the veteran right-hander is expected to miss the entire 2026 season recovering from Tommy John surgery. Taking Miller's spot on the Cubs' 40-man roster is utility infielder Ben Cowles, who is returning to the organization for the second time this offseason.
The Cubs first acquired Cowles at the 2024 MLB trade deadline in a deal that sent relief pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. to the New York Yankees. Cowles was injured at the time that the Cubs traded for him, but the hope was that he could turn into a utility piece on the team's bench at some point during the 2025 season.
Cubs turn to Ben Cowles once again after Shelby Miller expectedly lands on the 60-day IL
Instead, an uninspiring run at the Triple-A level last year led to the Cubs designating him for assignment near the end of the campaign. Cowles landed with the Chicago White Sox to close out the season, but ultimately returned to the Cubs early in the offseason.
The Cubs designated Cowles for assignment at the start of spring training, making room for Miller on the 40-man roster. Even though Miller was signed with the expectation that he would be placed on the 60-day IL, the Cubs had to first add him to the 40-man roster before they could make the procedural move.
Cowles had a two-week run with the Toronto Blue Jays and has returned to the Cubs after being designated for assignment last week. Cowles was hitless through 9 plate appearances with the Jays during spring training before his return to the Cubs.
In terms of infield options that could serve as insurance for the Cubs in the event that there is an injury at the major league level, the Cubs were thin at Triple-A Iowa. The prospect shine has worn off on Cowles, but he still seems capable of being used as an up-and-down infielder for the Cubs in 2026. Despite the back-and-forth with the Cubs this offseason, Cowles still has two minor-league options remaining.