On Sunday, the Chicago Cubs are looking to win their series (at Wrigley Field) against the Washington Nationals.
Each team has won one of the first two games.
Cubs Make Roster Decision Before Nationals Game
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – SEPTEMBER 16: Jack Neely #47 of the Chicago Cubs throws a pitch during the ninth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Wrigley Field on September 16, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Before Sunday’s game, the Cubs made a roster decision.
Bruce Levine of WSCR-AM wrote: “Cubs outright RHP Jack Neely to Iowa after he cleared waivers. Neely was DFA on Wednesday.”
GettyMESA, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 17: Jack Neely #47 of the Chicago Cubs poses for a portrait during photo day at Sloan Park on February 17, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Neely was picked by the New York Yankees in the 11th round of the 2021 MLB Draft out of Ohio State.
He has appeared in six total MLB games (with the Cubs).
The Yankees wrote (on July 30, 2024): “The New York Yankees today announced that they have acquired right-handed pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for minor league infielder Ben Cowles and right-handed pitcher Jack Neely.”
GettyMESA, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 17: Pitcher Jack Neely #47 of the Chicago Cubs poses for a portrait during photo day at Sloan Park on February 17, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Neely’s Minor League Career
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 22: Jack Neely #47 of the Cleveland Guardians throws a pitch during a game against the Detroit Tigers at Wrigley Field on August 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
During the 2024 season, Neely had a strong year in Double-A and Triple-A.
He went 1-1 with a 2.86 ERA in 39 games.
It’s very possible that he will play well enough in Iowa to get another chance in the big leagues.
@TheWrigleyWire wrote (on February 25, 2026): “Jack Neely’s first two ST appearances of 2026: 2.0 IP | 0 H | 0 R | 1 BB | 5 K 37.5% Whiff% | FB ~94 mph
Velocity is down a bit from prior looks, but the command looks improved and he’s getting good extension. The slider has been his main weapon.”
GettyMESA, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 17: Pitcher Jack Neely #47 of the Chicago Cubs poses for a portrait during photo day at Sloan Park on February 17, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Cubs Right Now
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – OCTOBER 09: Manager Craig Counsell of the Chicago Cubs speaks to the media during a press conference before game four of the National League Division Series at Wrigley Field on October 09, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Following the Nationals, the Cubs will remain at home to host Mike Trout and the Los Angeles Angels.
They will then head on their first road trip starting with a series on April 3 against the Cleveland Guardians in Ohio.
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – OCTOBER 08: Dansby Swanson #7 and Ian Happ #8 of the Chicago Cubs high five after defeating the Milwaukee Brewers in game three of the National League Division Series at Wrigley Field on October 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Cubs last won a title in 2016.
They are coming off a year where they lost in the 2025 NLDS.
Chicago Cubs Make Roster Decision Before Nationals Game