The Chicago Cubs recalled veteran left-hander Drew Pomeranz from Triple-A Iowa before Friday's game against the Cardinals. Pomeranz, 37, returns to the organization after a brief stint with the Los Angeles Angels. He previously pitched for Chicago in 2025, posting a 2.17 ERA in 49 2/3 innings and contributing to their postseason run.

Pomeranz struggled with the Angels, going 0-3 with a 5.01 ERA in 25 appearances before his release on June 18. Cubs president Jed Hoyer expressed hope that Pomeranz can regain his previous form, stating, "our hope is that we can get him back on track." Pomeranz has a career 3.85 ERA over 13 major league seasons with eight different teams.

Simultaneously, the Cubs optioned left-hander Jordan Wicks back to Iowa. Wicks had been recalled on June 28 and appeared in two games, allowing one run in four innings with two saves. However, he struggled earlier in May with a 10.45 ERA over two outings. Pomeranz's return adds bullpen depth, while Wicks heads back to the minors to work on his consistency.