11-year MLB veteran returns in surprise deal with the Cubs

11-year MLB veteran returns in surprise deal with the Cubs originally appeared on The Sporting News

The Chicago Cubs are looking to make upgrades during the final month of the regular season. They are fighting for a postseason berth, currently holding the first Wild Card spot with their 80-59 record.

Over the past week, the Cubbies have signed multiple players to minor league contracts. They signed Joe Ross, Austin Gomber, Carlos Santana, and Aaron Civale. However, their most recent move may be their most exciting yet.

According to Bleacher Nation’s Brett Taylor, the Cubs have also signed 11-year MLB veteran Billy Hamilton to a minor league deal. This marks Hamilton’s second stint with the team, having played in 14 games with them during the 2020 season.

“The signing was official on August 31, which is notable in his case, because that means he is eligible for the Cubs’ playoff roster if they decide they want his speed on the bench.”

With the date of the signing, Hamilton is eligible for the postseason roster. While he has likely lost a step over the years, he will be someone that opposing pitchers will not want to see come in the game to pinch run.

Billy Hamilton has been away from the MLB for the past few seasons

The last time Billy Hamilton was employed by Major League Baseball was back in 2023 when he was a member of the Tampa Bay Rays. He would stay in the minors to finish out that season and spent the following year in the Mexican Baseball League, where he has been since.

Signing Hamilton is a low-risk, high-reward situation. He does not cost the team much money and could be a key factor on the basepaths if the Cubs hold on to their Wild Card spot.