DUNEDIN, Fla. – The Toronto Blue Jays added infield depth Wednesday, claiming Ben Cowles off waivers from the Chicago Cubs, the team announced. The move coincided with the placement of right-hander Bowden Francis on the 60-day injured list following right UCL reconstruction surgery, according to the Blue Jays.
Cowles, 26, has bounced between organizations in recent months. He was initially added to the Cubs’ 40-man roster in November 2024 to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft, according to Blue Jays Central. Prior to that, he was acquired by the Cubs from the Latest York Yankees in a trade involving Mark Leiter Jr. In 2024. He was briefly claimed by the White Sox before being returned to the Cubs on waivers in January, as reported by Blue Jays Insider.
The acquisition of Cowles addresses a perceived need for infield versatility, particularly as the Blue Jays navigate Spring Training. MLB.com noted that the team’s infield depth is currently less robust than its outfield, with Addison Barger potentially splitting time between third base and right field and Davis Schneider as an option at second base.
Cowles has logged minor league experience at second base, shortstop and third base, offering the Blue Jays a utility option. He hit .235 with nine home runs and 18 stolen bases at the Triple-A level in 2025, according to Blue Jays Insider. In 2024, he posted a .286 average with a 141 wRC+ at Double-A, as detailed by Blue Jays Central.
The Blue Jays’ decision to claim Cowles comes with option years attached to his contract, potentially providing flexibility in roster management, according to MLB.com. This could also benefit Leo Jiménez, a 24-year-old infielder currently on the roster bubble, by allowing the team to retain an optionable utility infielder.
Francis’s placement on the 60-day injured list clears a roster spot for Cowles. The right-hander underwent UCL reconstruction, sidelining him for the 2026 season, as reported by Sportsnet.ca.
