Cubs Trade for Catcher Matt Thaiss to Bolster Depth

The Cubs acquired former first-round pick Matt Thaiss from the Angels for cash considerations, addressing a critical offseason need at catcher.

The Chicago Cubs traded cash considerations to the Los Angeles Angels to acquire catcher Matt Thaiss, a former first-round draft pick in 2016.
Thaiss, 29, has spent his entire professional career with the Angels, transitioning back to catcher in 2021 after initially playing corner infield positions.
He slashed .204/.323/.299 in 57 games during the 2024 season and is under team control through 2027, though he is out of minor league options.
The Cubs had only one catcher, Miguel Amaya, on their 40-man roster entering the offseason and have been actively seeking to strengthen their catching depth.
To make room for Thaiss, the Cubs designated right-handed pitcher Trey Wingenter for assignment, who had a 3.00 ERA in six innings with the team late in 2024.