A fresh start is on the horizon for Corbin Martin as he inks a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs. This move signifies a chance for the right-handed pitcher to revitalize his career, and it's a story filled with potential and challenges.
According to reports from Marquee's Lance Brozdowski, the Cubs and 30-year-old Corbin Martin have reached an agreement, likely including a non-roster invitation to the MLB camp.
Martin's journey in the 2025 season with Baltimore was a rollercoaster. He pitched 18 innings, allowing 15 runs (with 12 earned). This brought his career earned run average to 6.54 across 75 2/3 innings over four seasons. His performance in Triple-A Norfolk wasn't much better, with a 5.82 ERA in 34 appearances. He did manage a 22.5% strikeout rate, but the walks were a significant issue, with a 13.6% walk rate.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Drafted in the second round by the Astros, Martin was once a highly-touted prospect. The Diamondbacks acquired him in the Zack Greinke trade. However, injuries have plagued his career. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019 and missed the entire 2023 season due to a torn lat tendon. His control, once a strength in the minors, has faltered at higher levels. In both the big leagues and Triple-A, Martin has walked over 12% of batters faced.
The Cubs are clearly intrigued by Martin's raw talent, offering him this non-roster deal. His fastball can reach 95-96 MPH, complemented by a slider and curveball. It's an arsenal that can generate strikeouts, but he'll need to find the strike zone more consistently to earn a spot in Craig Counsell's bullpen.
And this is the part most people miss...
Martin has used up his minor league options. This means the Cubs will either need to keep him on the major league roster or risk losing him through waivers if they call him up.
What do you think? Can Martin overcome his injury history and control issues to become a valuable asset for the Cubs? Share your thoughts in the comments!
