The Chicago Cubs have been hit with unexpected and disappointing news this week after former minor league pitcher Scarlyn Lebron, a top prospect they had hoped to bring back to bolster their pitching depth, was arrested in connection with two Arizona home invasions.
Lebron, who pitched in the Cubs’ minor league system until his release in August 2024, was taken into custody by Phoenix police along with three other former minor league players: Darol Garcia (Dodgers), Rony Baez (Cubs), and Josue Rodriguez (Rangers). None of the four were under contract with any MLB-affiliated team at the time of the alleged incidents.
The home invasions reportedly occurred on September 29 and October 8. Police stated that in one incident a gun was pointed at a child, and authorities believe the suspects targeted homes based on recent appliance deliveries. The arrests highlight a serious legal matter involving multiple former professional baseball players.
Lebron had been considered a potential piece to reinforce the Cubs’ pitching depth as the team evaluated returning former prospects to help strengthen the rotation and bullpen. His arrest now complicates any plans the Cubs may have had to reunite with him, leaving a gap in the team’s offseason pitching strategy.
While Lebron is no longer officially part of the Cubs organization, his previous status as a top minor league arm made him a notable target for potential reintegration into the system. Fans and analysts alike had been monitoring his progress after his release, and this news comes as a significant disappointment.
The four suspects are scheduled to appear in court on December 24, according to AZfamily.com. For the Cubs, this development represents a clear setback in their efforts to bolster pitching depth and rebuild their farm system pipeline with familiar talent.
As the organization moves forward, they will likely continue evaluating alternative options to strengthen the rotation and bullpen for the 2026 season, while closely monitoring the legal proceedings involving Lebron and the other former minor leaguers.
