Cubs Sign 6-Foot-8 Free Agent Pitcher Who Throws 98 MPH and is Making MLB Comeback

Chicago Cubs Make a Bold Move: Gabe Klobosits Signs with Cubs After Winding Journey

The Chicago Cubs have added a pitcher with an impressive fastball and an intriguing backstory to their bullpen. Gabe Klobosits, standing at an imposing 6-foot-8, is the Cubs’ latest free-agent signing. Despite not appearing in a major league game since 2021, the Cubs are betting on his potential to make a major league comeback. Klobosits, who has shown the ability to reach 98 MPH with his fastball during offseason workouts, is looking to revitalize his career in Chicago.

The Cubs’ decision to bring Klobosits into the fold is a low-risk, high-reward move. If his fastball is as explosive as reported, Klobosits could provide a major boost to the Cubs’ bullpen at some point during the 2026 MLB season. Despite his past struggles in the majors, the Cubs believe he could become a reliable arm in their bullpen if he has indeed taken his game to the next level. For Klobosits, this signing marks a crucial opportunity to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level of baseball.

Klobosits’ Road to the Big Leagues: From Late Round Pick to MLB Debut

Gabe Klobosits’ baseball journey has been anything but conventional. Hailing from Katy, Texas, Klobosits began his college career at Galveston College before earning a spot at Auburn University. It was from there that his professional career began to take shape, albeit in an unconventional manner. Despite a strong college career, Klobosits was selected in the 36th round of the 2017 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals – a far cry from the early-round picks typically expected to reach the majors.

Nevertheless, Klobosits made the most of his late-round selection. After working his way through the Nationals’ minor league system, he made his MLB debut in 2021. During his brief stint with the Nationals, Klobosits appeared in 11 games, posting a 5.56 ERA. While his performance in the majors was modest, it was a testament to his perseverance and determination. However, after a season with the Nats, Klobosits found himself back in the minors.

Minor League and Independent Ball: A New Chapter in Klobosits’ Career

After spending the 2022 season in Triple-A with the Las Vegas Aviators (Oakland Athletics) and the 2023 season with the Buffalo Bisons (Toronto Blue Jays), Klobosits was unable to secure another major league opportunity. With his major league dreams seemingly fading, Klobosits made the bold decision to transition to independent baseball, a move that would reignite his career.

Klobosits first joined the Atlantic League in 2023, playing for the Gastonia Honey Hunters. In his eight appearances for Gastonia that season, he posted an impressive 1.13 ERA, showcasing his potential in a more competitive environment. The following year, he continued to impress with Gastonia, maintaining a solid 2.18 ERA over 45 outings.

In 2025, Klobosits moved to the High Point Rockers of the Atlantic League, where he made 13 appearances and registered a strong 1.64 ERA. His impressive performance did not stop there, as he also played for the Cleburne Railroaders in the American Association, finishing the season with a 2.84 ERA in four outings. Klobosits’ time in independent ball was not just a reclamation of his career; it was a statement to major league teams that he was still capable of competing at a high level.

The Cubs’ Investment: A Pitcher with a Power Fastball

Despite his winding journey, Klobosits remains a tantalizing prospect for the Cubs. The key to his resurgence has been his fastball, which has been clocked at an impressive 98 MPH during his offseason workouts. For a pitcher who stands 6-foot-8, his size allows him to generate exceptional velocity, and his fastball has been a key part of his success in the independent leagues.

The Cubs’ decision to take a chance on Klobosits is based on the belief that he could still have untapped potential. His fastball, combined with the experience he gained during his time in the minors and independent ball, could make him a valuable asset in the Cubs’ bullpen. While his time in the major leagues has been limited, the Cubs are hopeful that he has developed into a more polished pitcher, ready to make an impact in the big leagues once again.

A Low-Risk, High-Reward Signing for the Cubs

The Cubs’ decision to sign Klobosits is undoubtedly a low-risk move, as it involves very little financial commitment. However, the potential upside is significant. If Klobosits has indeed refined his game and can translate his success from the independent leagues to the major leagues, he could provide a much-needed boost to the Cubs’ bullpen.

The Cubs are currently building a competitive roster, and adding a pitcher like Klobosits could provide depth and flexibility in their pitching staff. If Klobosits can consistently hit the high 90s with his fastball, he could be a key contributor in late-game situations, potentially emerging as a reliable setup man or even a closer in the future.

Klobosits’ Impact on the Cubs’ Bullpen: What to Expect

The Cubs’ bullpen has been an area of concern in recent seasons, with inconsistent performances from some of their key relievers. Adding Klobosits could help solidify the bullpen and give the Cubs a weapon they have been lacking – a hard-throwing, high-velocity pitcher capable of generating strikeouts. His experience in both the majors and independent ball gives him a unique perspective, and his size and fastball velocity make him an intriguing option for the Cubs as they seek to improve their pitching staff.

Klobosits’ ability to throw heat will likely give him an edge when competing for a spot in the Cubs’ bullpen during spring training. While it is unclear exactly what role he will play, there is no doubt that his fastball could make him a key asset for the Cubs as they continue their pursuit of a postseason berth. Whether he’s used as a late-inning reliever, a setup man, or a potential closer, Klobosits’ fastball could make him a valuable piece in the Cubs’ bullpen rotation.

What’s Next for Klobosits?

Klobosits’ signing with the Cubs represents the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. After spending time in the minor leagues and independent ball, he now has the chance to make a major league comeback. The Cubs will give him the opportunity to prove himself during spring training, and if he performs well, he could earn a spot on the major league roster.

For Klobosits, this is a chance to prove that he belongs at the highest level of baseball. After years of toiling in the minors and independent leagues, he now has the opportunity to return to the majors and show that his fastball can still dominate at the highest level. If he succeeds, he could find himself in a key role for the Cubs as they aim for a return to postseason contention.

Final Thoughts: Cubs’ Bold Signing Could Pay Off

While Gabe Klobosits’ journey to the major leagues has been unconventional, his story is one of resilience and determination. The Cubs’ signing of Klobosits represents a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay off in the long run. With his fastball reaching 98 MPH, Klobosits has the potential to be a key contributor in the Cubs’ bullpen, provided he can maintain his velocity and continue to refine his pitching.

For the Cubs, this signing is a gamble, but one that could pay off in a big way if Klobosits can translate his success in independent ball to the majors. If he can stay healthy and continue to develop his game, Klobosits could be a valuable piece in the Cubs’ pitching staff, helping them make a push for the postseason in 2026 and beyond.