According to Andrew Destin of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, right-handed pitcher Ben Heller has signed a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs. Heller logged just 12 innings with an 11.25 ERA and a 2.08 WHIP with the Pittsburgh Pirates last season. However, at Triple-A, he held a 3.55 ERA and a 1.00 WHIP across 33 innings of work. In this stint, he struck out an impressive 55 batters. Heller was on the injured list with a shoulder injury towards the end of the season but has not shown any signs of being in danger of missing Spring Training. The 33-year-old could earn a spot on the major league roster but will likely open the 2025 season at the Triple-A level, given his lack of success in the big leagues.
Braves Outright Ben Heller, Andrew Velazquez To Triple-A
The Atlanta Braves outrighted right-hander Ben Heller and infielder Andrew Velazquez to Triple-A Gwinnett on Wednesday. The Baltimore Orioles also claimed outfielder Sam Hilliard off waivers from the Braves. Heller, 32, made his first appearance in the big leagues in three years in 2023 and surrendered nine runs (eight earned) on 16 hits (two home runs) while walking 11 and striking out 16 in 18 2/3 innings over 19 outings out of the bullpen in Atlanta. Velazquez, 29, was claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels late in the year and didn't see any action in the bigs in Atlanta to close out the season. In 54 games for the Halos, he hit a weak .173 (14-for-81) with two home runs, three RBI and 13 stolen bases in 94 plate appearances.
Ben Heller
• RP
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Cubs
