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This Cubs DFA didn’t make headlines but could impact the bullpen

Jordan Campbell
Jordan Campbell

Cubbies Crib

MLB Tokyo Series: Chicago Cubs v Hanshin Tigers / Gene Wang/GettyImages

The Tyson Miller journey with the Chicago Cubs has come to a forgettable end. Miller opened the 2025 season on the IL for the Cubs, trying to work his way back from a hip injury he suffered during the team's exhibition games in Japan. Miller seemed to be working his way back on a minor-league rehab assignment, but was transferred to the 60-day IL after getting hit by a comebacker during an appearance with the Iowa Cubs.

The Cubs' decision to place Miller on the 60-day IL had the perception of the team kicking the can down the road on eventually waiving the veteran reliever. Confirmation of that perception was provided on Thursday as Miller was designated for assignment.

Tyson Miller's time with the Cubs comes to an apparent end

It's possible that this was the procedural move, as Miller could have a pathway to a spot on a Major League roster elsewhere. Given that the Cubs' bullpen has begun to stabilize since their struggles during the early weeks of the season, there wasn't exactly a clear path to Miller's return to the Major League pitching staff. With Miller also being out of minor-league options, the Cubs were not in a position where they could've activated him from the IL and optioned him to the minors.

Miller was a success story from the Cubs' 2024 season. An in-season addition from the Seattle Mariners, Miller posted a 2.15 ERA in 49 appearances. Miller struggled to find his footing during Spring Training, and with the injury, quickly became an afterthought when talking about the Cubs' bullpen this season.

If the Cubs had their wish, chances are they would have liked to have held onto Miller, considering they never shy away from having depth. It's possible that Miller wanted to end his rehab assignment with the Cubs and see if he can latch onto a bullpen job with another team. If he doesn't, it's possible he returns to the Cubs on a minor-league deal.

Jordan Campbell

Jordan Campbell

For nearly 15 years, Jordan has been a workhorse across the FanSided network - including being the inaugural site expert for Cubbies Crib, as well as a stop at Da Windy City as the site expert. In addition to returning to be a Co-Site Expert at Cubbies Crib, Jordan was previously the Site Expert at Bear Goggles On. In the years since, Jordan has joined FanSided's full-time team, serving as a staff writer for the MLB division. Jordan's work can be seen across the MLB division, including a consistent presence on our Cubs, Twins, Astros, and Tigers sites. Since 2010, Jordan has dedicated his craft to providing insightful commentary on all things Chicago sports, and he has enjoyed his venture into all things Major League Baseball.