Chicago Cubs Sign Former Highly Touted Pitching Prospect
Romero Returns to Affiliated Ball After Strong Minor League Run
Originally a 15th-round pick by the Seattle Mariners in 2017, Romero rose through the ranks quickly and became a notable name after being dealt to Tampa Bay in the Alex Colomé trade. While his big-league debut in 2022 was rocky—posting a combined 7.71 ERA over two short stints with the Rays and Washington Nationals—he’s remained productive in the minors.
Across 652.1 career innings in the minors, Romero holds a solid 3.08 ERA, including a standout 3.14 ERA in 72.2 innings for Triple-A Sacramento in 2023, despite pitching in the notoriously hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.
Cubs signed another MiLB Free Agent
— Todd ⚾️🐻🦌 (@CubsCentral08) May 10, 2025
RHP Tommy Romero assigned to ACL Cubs.
He's 27, pitched in the Giants, Rays, Nats, Mariners systems as a swing guy.
Last seen in Mexico for Guerreros de Oaxaca.
He likely goes to AA or AAA
He began 2025 in the Mexican League, but after a rough pair of starts there, he now finds himself with the Cubs, where his experience and durability could prove invaluable—especially with Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, Javier Assad, and Brandon Birdsell all battling injuries.
A Depth Arm With Upside for the Cubs’ Stretch Run
Romero won’t jump to the front of Chicago’s rotation plans—Cade Horton, Chris Flexen, Ben Brown, and others remain ahead on the depth chart—but his signing is a low-risk move that could pay off if more arms go down. With his mix of starting experience, a capable strikeout rate, and an ability to eat innings, Romero could work his way into the conversation later this summer if opportunity knocks.
Photo Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
