The Chicago Cubs won two of three games against the Chicago White Sox before dropping the series finale 3-0 on Wednesday afternoon.
Shortly after the loss, Chicago made a roster move to strengthen its infield, especially with starting shortstop Dansby Swanson currently on the injured list with an oblique injury and no definite return date.
The Cubs claimed 26-year-old infielder Gabriel Arias off waivers from the New York Mets, who had designated him for assignment roughly a day earlier.
To open a spot on the roster, Chicago moved right-handed reliever Phil Maton to the 60-day injured list.
The move gives the Cubs another experienced infield option while they deal with Swanson’s absence.
Arias first reached the majors in 2022 with the Cleveland Guardians and spent the majority of his career in their organization.
Cleveland eventually designated him for assignment, after which he joined the Mets, but New York made the same decision following continued struggles at the plate.
Despite his offensive limitations, Arias brings considerable MLB experience and provides Chicago with additional defensive versatility.
In 2026, Arias has hit .235 with five home runs, 11 RBIs and four stolen bases in 132 at-bats, along with a .371 slugging percentage and .645 OPS. For his career, he owns a .218 batting average with 30 home runs, 111 RBIs and 235 hits in 364 games.
With Chicago sitting at 74-54 and trying to close the gap on Milwaukee in the NL Central, Arias could see time in a platoon or utility role.
The Cubs currently trail the Brewers by five games but remain in possession of the National League’s top Wild Card position.
