Cubs DFA 6-Year MLB Veteran Infielder

The Chicago Cubs have designated veteran infielder Owen Miller for assignment, less than a week after calling him up from Triple-A Iowa. The move comes after Miller made just one appearance with the Cubs, though he did not record an official at-bat. Miller, who has spent six seasons in Major League Baseball, was brought up to provide depth following recent injuries to the Cubs' infield, but his brief stint in the majors appears to have ended abruptly. Miller’s promotion to the Cubs came on August 19, 2026, following a strong performance in the minors. During the 2026 season, he played 96 games for Triple-A Iowa, hitting seven home runs, driving in 57 runs, and maintaining a .296 batting average. His production had drawn attention from the Cubs, who saw an opportunity to add depth to their struggling infield. However, despite his success in the minors, Miller did not get a chance to play in the majors beyond his initial call-up. The decision to designate Miller for assignment follows a pattern seen throughout the 2026 MLB season, where teams frequently shuffle rosters due to injuries and performance concerns. The Cubs, who have faced multiple setbacks in their infield, have been looking for consistent production from their middle infielders. Miller’s designation allows the team to clear a spot on their 40-man roster while giving other players a chance to prove themselves. Owen Miller has played for four different organizations over his six-year MLB career. He began with the Cleveland Guardians, later joined the Milwaukee Brewers, then moved to the Colorado Rockies, and finally signed with the Cubs earlier this year. Across 304 games, he has hit 15 home runs, driven in 100 runs, and maintained a .238 batting average. While his numbers are modest compared to elite performers, they reflect a player who has consistently contributed at the major league level. Miller’s time with the Cubs was brief but notable. After being promoted, he was added to the active roster but did not see game action. The Cubs have since placed him on waivers, which means another team can claim him if they choose. If no team claims Miller, he will become a free agent, allowing him to sign with any organization willing to take a chance on his abilities. The move highlights the challenges facing the Cubs as they attempt to stabilize their infield. Manager David Ross has emphasized the need for consistency and reliability from his defensive core, and the frequent changes to the roster suggest that finding that stability has proven difficult. Miller’s departure adds to a list of players who have come and gone from the Cubs’ roster this season. While Miller’s future remains uncertain, his performance in Triple-A suggests that he still has value as a minor league performer. Teams looking for depth in their infield might view him as a potential acquisition, especially given his experience and track record. However, the likelihood of him receiving a second chance in the majors depends largely on whether another team sees fit to claim him off waivers. As the 2026 season continues, the Cubs remain focused on improving their defensive capabilities and overall performance. Their decision to designate Miller for assignment underscores the ongoing efforts to adjust the roster based on current needs and circumstances. Whether Miller finds a new home or returns to the minors, his story serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of professional baseball and the constant search for competitive advantage.