The Chicago Cubs have made a bullpen adjustment by optioning right-handed reliever Nate Pearson to Triple-A Iowa following an underwhelming big-league outing.
In his place, the Cubs have brought back a familiar face: Michael Fulmer, who has been officially added to the active roster ahead of their series opener against the St. Louis Cardinals. Fulmer, who last pitched for Chicago in 2023, is getting another shot at contributing after impressing during his minor league stint.
Fulmer originally signed a minor league deal with the Cubs in April 2025 after recovering from UCL revision surgery that cost him the entire 2024 season.
Prior to his call-up, Fulmer logged 24.1 innings with Triple-A Iowa, sporting an impressive 2.96 ERA and striking out 32% of batters faced. Known for his nasty sweeper, he’s now aiming to reestablish himself in a Cubs bullpen that has been heavily taxed in recent weeks.
During the 2023 season, Fulmer had a rocky start with the Cubs but eventually found his rhythm. After allowing nine earned runs in his first 9.1 innings, he rebounded with a 2.83 ERA over 41.1 innings from late April through early August.
Unfortunately, his progress was cut short by a forearm strain that landed him on the injured list twice, ending his season prematurely.
Following his injury-marred 2023, Fulmer signed a two-year minor league contract with the Boston Red Sox.
He returned to action in 2025 with a few appearances in Triple-A before being called up for a single major league outing in which he surrendered three earned runs in 2.2 innings. Shortly after, he was designated for assignment, paving the way for his return to Chicago.
Fulmer’s career has been a rollercoaster since winning AL Rookie of the Year with the Detroit Tigers in 2016. Once a promising starter, injuries—including Tommy John surgery—derailed his starting career.
However, a shift to the bullpen in 2021 revitalized him, as he posted solid numbers with both the Tigers and Twins before joining the Cubs.
Now 32, Fulmer has the opportunity to once again prove his value at the major league level. With the Cubs eyeing a postseason run, his return brings experience and a potential spark to a bullpen in need of reliable arms.
If he can stay healthy, Fulmer could become a key piece down the stretch for Chicago.
