Yankees Sign Cubs Pitcher Who Broke His Hand at Wrigley Field
Aldo Soto
It’s wild how a struggling bullpen can shape opinions. At one point in 2024, I thought Colten Brewer should close games for the Cubs. Now, the right-hander has signed with the New York Yankees, though his Cubs tenure is sadly remembered for breaking his hand at Wrigley Field.
Brewer, 32, ended his 2024 season early after punching the dugout wall in frustration following a relief outing against the Los Angeles Angels in July. Thankfully, he used his non-pitching hand, but the injury sidelined him for the rest of the season with a broken left hand.
Earlier this week, Robert Murray reported that Brewer signed a minor league deal with the Yankees. This marks Brewer’s third stint in the organization. He previously pitched in their minor league system in 2017 and rejoined after the Tampa Bay Rays traded him to the Yankees following the 2022 season.
In 2023, Brewer made three appearances for the Yankees before being released to pursue an opportunity in Japan.
The Cubs acquired Brewer on Dec. 31, 2023. After starting 2024 in Triple-A, he was called up to the majors on April 17. Brewer battled injuries, including a back issue, but returned in June and pitched in nine more games before the hand injury ended his season.
Through his first eight outings, Brewer performed well, posting a 2.84 ERA in 12.2 innings. He earned his first MLB save on June 19 against the San Francisco Giants but struggled in subsequent appearances.
In 2024, Brewer finished with a 5.66 ERA in 20.2 innings, recording 22 strikeouts and nine walks.
Brewer’s MLB career has included time with the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Yankees, and Cubs, with a 5.10 ERA across 120 innings.