Chicago Cubs Release Former Top Prospect Pitcher
The Chicago Cubs have officially released Nate Pearson, a once highly touted prospect in the Toronto Blue Jays system, after designating him for assignment earlier this week.
The move clears room for right-hander Eli Morgan, who was reinstated from the 60-day injured list.
Former top prospect released
Pearson’s fall has been swift and disappointing for a pitcher once projected as a franchise cornerstone in Toronto.
Drafted in the first round in 2017, he was billed as a future ace thanks to his upper-90s fastball. Instead, command issues and recurring injuries derailed his career. Across 123 big league appearances (five starts), Pearson has a 5.17 ERA and a history of inconsistency despite flashes of promise.
On Saturday, the Cubs made the following moves:
— Diamond Sports Network (@PRSN29) September 22, 2025
- Designated RHP Nate Pearson for assignment
- Activated RHP Eli Morgan off the 60-day IL and optioned him to Iowa.
Yesterday:
- RHP Nate Pearson was released by the Cubs. He is on conditional release waivers.
Traded to Chicago at the 2024 deadline, Pearson briefly revived his career with a 2.73 ERA in 26 innings. But in 2025, his struggles resurfaced.
He allowed 15 runs across just 14.2 innings, walking more batters (10) than he struck out (seven). While he fared much better at Triple-A Iowa (2.22 ERA, 30.6% strikeout rate), his control problems persisted with an alarming 12.9% walk rate.
At 29 years old, Pearson still carries two years of arbitration eligibility and could draw interest on a minor-league deal this winter as a low-cost reclamation project.
Photo Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
