After securing a playoff spot for the first time since 2020, the Chicago Cubs are determined to stay competitive and build on their success in 2025. As the offseason kicks off, the Cubs made an early move that may fly under the radar but could have future implications for the team.
Chicago has signed pitcher Sam Mettert to a minor league deal, according to Jesse Rogers of ESPN. A native of Chicago, Mettert recently completed his college career at St. John’s, where he graduated in 2025. During his time at St. John’s, Mettert impressed scouts by reaching a fastball velocity of 98 MPH while training at Tread Athletics.
In two seasons with St. John’s, Mettert posted a 7.17 ERA and a 51/33 K/BB ratio. While those numbers may not be eye-popping, the Cubs clearly see potential in the right-hander, particularly with his ability to hit high-velocity marks.
“I chose to forgo grad school for this new minor league opportunity. The right-hander has the velocity for success. Now I’ll look to prove I can handle minor league hitting.”
— Sam Mettert, Chicago Cubs Pitching Prospect
Mettert’s college statistics might raise questions about his ability to succeed at the next level, as he struggled with a high walk rate and issues preventing runs. Nevertheless, the Cubs are betting on his raw talent and velocity, believing that with the right development, he could be a valuable asset to the organization.
At this point, it’s unclear where Mettert will start his journey in the Cubs’ system, but it’s likely that he will begin in the lower minors as the Cubs evaluate how his skills translate to professional baseball. He faces an uphill battle to make an impact, but his hometown connection with the team gives him an extra layer of motivation as he embarks on this next step.
Mettert, who chose to forgo graduate school for this opportunity, will now work to prove that he can handle minor league hitters and eventually make it to the major leagues. If things go well, the Cubs may have found a diamond in the rough to add to their pitching depth down the line. For now, it’s a low-risk move with high potential, and it adds to the Cubs’ ongoing efforts to strengthen their roster for the future.
ST. PAUL, Minn – Before its game against the San Jose Sharks (7-6-3) the Minnesota Wild (7-7-3) recalled defenseman David Spacek from the Iowa Wild of the American Hockey League (AHL).
Spacek, 22, was a fifth round pick by the Wild from the 2022 NHL Draft. He has played in 145 games with the Iowa Wild in parts of three seasons. He has recorded seven goals, 42 assists and 49 points.
The 6-foot defender has six assists in 12 games this season for Iowa. With Jake Middleton sick, adding Spacek will provide the Wild with a seventh defenseman incase someone can’t play tonight.