Thielbar will fill the remaining spot in the Cubs 40-man roster heading into the new year. The eight-year veteran had spent his entire career with the Minnesota Twins before the signing.
Thielbar set a career-high in ERA (5.32) with the Twins last season in 59 games. He gave up 50 hits and 24 walks in 47.1 innings while striking out 53 batters. He was one of the most consistent relief pitchers in the league up until this past season.
Previously, Thielbar never pitched above a 3.50 ERA. Now, he gives the Cubs a possible great left-handed pickup to solidify their bullpen. Left-handed hitters hit .244 off of Thielbar this year but the Cubs are hoping he gets back to form against lefties, who he’s held to a .217 average over the course of his career.
Thielbar has a career 3.38 ERA with 347 strikeouts in 320 innings pitched.