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Ben Cowles joining the Toronto Blue Jays via waivers from the Cubs is a savvy depth move that adds immediate defensive flexibility to the 40-man roster.
Losing Bowden Francis to the 60-day IL for the entire 2026 season is a tough pill for fans to swallow after his recent surgery.
But the front office isn't sitting still while the roster shifts during Spring Training in Dunedin.
Cowles (Drafted 10th round, 2021 by New York) is exactly the type of utility man who can provide insurance across the diamond.
He is coming off a 2025 season where he posted a .235 average with nine home runs and 18 stolen bases at the Triple-A level.
Mitch Bannon shared the official news of the roster shuffle as the team prepares for the long grind ahead.
Mitch Bannon
@MitchBannon
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1h
#BlueJays announce they've claimed infielder Ben Cowles off waivers from the Cubs.
Ranked as Chicago's #14 prospect in 2025 (Baseball America), he's a versatile defender (2B,SS,3B) with minor-league options. Jays needed some INF depth.
Francis moved to 60 day IL to make room
While his strikeout rate climbed last year, his 2024 performance in Double-A showed a hitter with real gap-to-gap power and elite swing decisions.
Toronto finds a diamond in the rough
It is a relief to see the Jays aggressively targeting young talent to fill gaps left by injuries.
At 26 years old, Cowles still has the potential to carve out a meaningful role as a versatile backup for Toronto.
He has experience playing second base, shortstop, and third base, making him a true "Swiss Army knife" for John Schneider.
The Jays needed this infield depth, especially after the departure of key veterans in free agency this past winter.
His speed on the basepaths is a legitimate weapon, as he has reached double-digit steals in four consecutive minor league seasons.
Cowles will likely start the year in Buffalo, but do not be surprised if he makes a push for the majors soon.
This move proves the front office is focused on maximizing every roster spot to keep the competitive window open.
We are building a more resilient group that can handle the inevitable ups and downs of a 162-game schedule.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 18|217 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays acquire infielder from the Chicago Cubs Do you think Ben Cowles will make his MLB debut with the Blue Jays this season? | ||
| Yes | 97 | 44.7 % |
| No | 120 | 55.3 % |
| List of polls | ||