Cubs Sign Spencer Turnbull to Minor League Deal

For those worried that the Cubs weren’t going to make any moves in July, fear no more. The Cubs have signed Spencer Turnbull to a minor league deal!

Spencer Turnbull goes to the Cubs

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 18, 2025

The 32-year-old made three appearances for the Toronto Blue Jays this year, logging just 6.1 innings. He allowed five earned runs, issued four walks, and struck out four. The Blue Jays released him in late June. While his 2025 season hasn’t gone as expected, a chase rate of 33.8%—albeit in a very, very small sample size—is still something to be excited about.

In 2024 with the Phillies, Turnbull pitched in 17 games, starting seven. He logged 54.1 innings with a 2.65 ERA and a 1.05 WHIP. This season, he’s lowered his sinker usage, which may be contributing to his struggles. He features a six-pitch arsenal, led by a four-seam fastball and a sweeper.

While it’s only a minor-league deal, and therefore nothing to get worked up about, having another veteran depth piece in the system is never a bad thing.