Cubs add 6-foot-8 pitcher with 98 MPH fastball to roster in MLB comeback

The Chicago Cubs have signed Gabe Klobosits, a 6-foot-8 pitcher with a 98 MPH fastball, aiming for a Major League Baseball comeback. After stints in the minors and independent leagues, the 30-year-old right-hander hopes to make an impact in the Cubs' bullpen during the 2026 season.

The Chicago Cubs have signed pitcher Gabe Klobosits, a free agent aiming to make a comeback to Major League Baseball (MLB). Klobosits, who has not played in the majors since 2021, joins the Cubs after spending the past few years in both the minor leagues and independent baseball. The 30-year-old right-handed pitcher is looking to make an impact in the Cubs' bullpen after showcasing strong performances during offseason workouts.

Background of Gabe Klobosits

Klobosits, a native of Katy, Texas, stands at 6 feet 8 inches tall. His baseball career began in college at Galveston College before transferring to Auburn University. Despite his college success, Klobosits was drafted in the 36th round of the 2017 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals, a pick that did not initially suggest a clear path to the major leagues. Nonetheless, he worked his way through the Nationals' minor league system and made his MLB debut in 2021.

MLB Career and Recent Performance

Klobosits' MLB career began with the Washington Nationals in 2021, where he appeared in 11 games and posted a 5.56 ERA. His time in the majors was brief, and after spending the next few years in the minor leagues, he did not receive another MLB call-up. In 2022, Klobosits played for the Las Vegas Aviators, a Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics. The following season, he joined the Buffalo Bisons, a Triple-A team for the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite strong performances in both years, he did not make it back to the majors in either season.

In 2023, Klobosits transitioned to independent baseball, joining the Gastonia Honey Hunters in the Atlantic League. There, he posted an impressive 1.13 ERA over eight appearances. His performance continued to improve in 2024, when he pitched 45 games for Gastonia, finishing with a 2.18 ERA. Later that year, Klobosits also played for the High Point Rockers in the Atlantic League, achieving a solid 1.64 ERA in 13 appearances. His success continued with four appearances for the Cleburne Railroaders in the American Association, where he ended with a 2.84 ERA.

Performance Metrics and Workouts

Throughout his career, Klobosits has been known for his ability to strike out batters consistently. In both the minor leagues and independent baseball, he averaged about one strikeout per inning, with his performance in independent leagues slightly exceeding that mark. One of his key assets is his fastball, which has reached speeds of 98 miles per hour during recent offseason workouts. The Cubs are hopeful that his increased pitching velocity, along with his experience in independent ball, will lead to a solid performance in their bullpen.

Why the Cubs Took a Chance on Klobosits

The Cubs' decision to sign Gabe Klobosits is considered a low-risk move with potential high rewards. His size, velocity, and recent performance make him a promising addition to the Cubs' pitching staff. At 30 years old, Klobosits still has time to make an impact, and the Cubs are likely to give him the opportunity to prove himself during spring training. If he continues his strong performances from independent baseball, he may have the chance to contribute to the Cubs' bullpen during the 2026 MLB season. With his fastball and strikeout capabilities, Klobosits presents an intriguing option for the team.

Conclusion

The Chicago Cubs are taking a calculated risk by signing Gabe Klobosits, a pitcher with a strong record in independent leagues but limited MLB experience. Standing at 6-foot-8 with a fastball reaching speeds of 98 mph, Klobosits offers significant potential for the Cubs' pitching staff. His ability to strike out batters and his strong recent performance have made him a promising candidate for a return to the majors. As Klobosits works toward a full MLB comeback in 2026, he will be looking to prove that he is ready for the next level.

Sources:

• CBS Sports — Cubs' Gabe Klobosits: Signs MiLB deal with Cubs
• MLB Trade Rumors — Cubs To Sign Gabe Klobosits To Minor League Deal
• Yahoo Sports — Cubs sign 6-foot-8 free agent pitcher who throws 98 MPH and is making MLB comeback
• Cubs sign 6-foot-8 free agent pitcher who throws 98 MPH and is making MLB comeback