Chicago Cubs Pull-Off Another Major Deal; Acquire Left-Handed Reliever Tom Cosgrove from Padres

CHICAGO – The Chicago Cubs have bolstered their bullpen depth by acquiring left-handed reliever Tom Cosgrove from the San Diego Padres in exchange for cash considerations, the team announced Thursday. Cosgrove has been optioned to Triple-A Iowa, where he will look to regain form and provide depth to the organization’s pitching staff.

Cosgrove, 28, began the 2024 season with the Padres’ Triple-A affiliate in El Paso. In four appearances, he posted a 7.36 ERA, allowing six runs in 7 1/3 innings. Despite his early struggles this season, Cosgrove has shown promise in the past, particularly in his rookie year with the Padres.

A 12th-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, Cosgrove made his major league debut in 2023 and quickly became a reliable arm out of San Diego’s bullpen. Over 72 career MLB appearances, he has compiled a 1-3 record with a 3.95 ERA and one save. Known for his deceptive delivery and ability to neutralize left-handed hitters, Cosgrove held opponents to a .213 batting average last season, with lefties hitting just .169 against him.

The Cubs, currently seeking to solidify their bullpen amid a slew of early-season injuries and inconsistency, view Cosgrove as a potential contributor down the line. Though he has been sent to Triple-A Iowa, his experience and left-handed arm could earn him a call-up if he performs well at the minor league level.

Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer has emphasized the importance of maintaining pitching depth throughout the long MLB season. “We’re always looking for opportunities to add depth and talent,” Hoyer said in a statement. “Tom has shown the ability to get big league hitters out and gives us another left-handed option.”

Chicago’s bullpen has had its ups and downs to start the 2024 season, and the addition of Cosgrove provides both flexibility and experience should the team need reinforcements. The move is also relatively low-risk, as it cost the Cubs only cash considerations.

For Cosgrove, the trade presents a new opportunity to reset and work his way back to the majors. With a track record of success at the big league level and the chance to refine his approach in Iowa, he could be a valuable asset for the Cubs in the months ahead.