MLB Spring Training Buzz: Cubs Bet on Miller’s Comeback, Jays-Astros Swap Outfielders, Reds Add Power, Angels Bring Back Taylor
Spring training is officially underway, and while most rosters are starting to settle, the MLB hot stove hasn’t completely cooled. A few key moves are still coming in as teams react to early injuries and look to shore up depth. Let’s break down the latest buzz from around the league.
Cubs Eye Long-Term Upside with Shelby Miller Deal
The Cubs are reportedly closing in on a multi-year deal with veteran reliever Shelby Miller. And while Miller won’t be throwing a single pitch in 2026 due to an elbow injury, this move is all about the long game.
At 35, Miller is no longer the high-upside starter he once was when he was taken in the first round back in 2009. But he’s carved out a second act as a reliable bullpen arm.
Last season, splitting time between the Diamondbacks and Brewers, he posted a strong 2.74 ERA and 1.04 WHIP, striking out 54 batters in 46 innings. That’s solid production, especially in today’s bullpen-heavy game.
The Brewers brought him in at the deadline, but his stint was cut short by an elbow issue that shut him down for the year. Now, the Cubs are taking a calculated risk - signing him knowing he won’t pitch this season, but betting on a healthy return in 2027. It’s a rehab-and-reward approach, and given the volatility of bullpens, it’s the kind of move that could quietly pay off in a big way down the line.
Blue Jays, Astros Swap Outfielders in Intriguing Trade
The Blue Jays and Astros linked up for a swap of outfielders, with Toronto acquiring Jesús Sánchez and Houston bringing back Joey Loperfido.
Sánchez, 28, brings a mix of power potential and defensive capability to the Jays. He hit .237/.304/.395 across 134 games last season between Miami and Houston, good for 1.3 WAR. He’s not going to carry an offense, but he can lengthen a lineup and provide solid corner outfield defense.
Loperfido, 26, returns to the Astros organization where he was originally drafted and developed. He was part of the Yusei Kikuchi trade at the 2024 deadline, and in limited action with the Blue Jays last year, he impressed - slashing .333/.379/.500 in 41 games and contributing 0.6 WAR. For Houston, it’s a reunion with a player they know well, and potentially a high-upside bat who could help them soon.
This is one of those trades that might not make headlines now but could look savvy in a few months depending on how each player settles in.
Reds Take a Flier on Nathaniel Lowe’s Bounce-Back Potential
The Reds have added some depth at first base, signing free agent Nathaniel Lowe. The 30-year-old is coming off a down year in 2025, where he hit just .228 with a .307 OBP and .381 slugging. Still, he managed 18 home runs and 84 RBI - not bad considering the dip in overall production.
The Reds are clearly banking on a return to form. From 2022 through 2024, Lowe was a consistent offensive presence, slashing .277/.360/.438 with a 126 OPS+. If he can recapture even part of that form, he could be a valuable bat in the middle of Cincinnati’s lineup or a strong left-handed option off the bench.
Angels Reunite with Chris Taylor on Minor-League Deal
Chris Taylor is back with the Angels on a minor-league deal, hoping to extend his big league career. The 35-year-old utility man split time between the Dodgers and Angels last season, finishing with a .186/.256/.301 slash line in 58 games.
Taylor’s offensive numbers have taken a hit in recent years, but his versatility remains his calling card. He’s played just about everywhere on the field, and that kind of flexibility is always valuable - especially for a team looking to navigate a long season with roster fluidity.
If Taylor can show anything with the bat this spring, he could find himself back in a big league role, providing depth and experience for the Halos.
Final Thoughts
With spring training just getting started, teams are still tinkering around the edges of their rosters - and in some cases, making moves with an eye toward 2027. Whether it’s a calculated rehab bet like Shelby Miller, a fresh start for Jesús Sánchez, or a bounce-back candidate like Nathaniel Lowe, these are the kinds of moves that may not steal headlines now but could shape the season in unexpected ways.
Baseball’s back, and the chessboard is already shifting.