John Antonoff / for the Sun-Times
In order to make right-hander Colin Rea’s signing official Monday, the Cubs designated pitching prospect Michael Arias for assignment.
Rea’s one-year deal is worth $5 million, a source confirmed, and it includes a club option for 2026. The veteran could provide depth for the Cubs both at the back end of the rotation and in the bullpen.
Arias was the Cubs’ No. 18 prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. The Cubs added him to the roster after the 2023 season to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.