Cubs acquire reliever Ryan Zeferjahn from Angels for Moisés Ballesteros

August 4, 2026 - 02:37

The Chicago Cubs made a move to strengthen their bullpen on Wednesday, acquiring right-handed pitcher Ryan Zeferjahn from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for catching prospect Moisés Ballesteros.

Zeferjahn, who turns 27 later this month, brings a power arm to the North Side. He has appeared in 15 games for the Angels this season, posting a 4.15 ERA over 13 innings while striking out 16 batters. His fastball regularly sits in the upper 90s, and he has shown the ability to miss bats with both his heater and a sharp slider.

The Cubs have been searching for reliable relief options all season, and Zeferjahn gives them another high-upside arm to mix into the late innings. He has spent most of his career in the minors, where he has been effective, with a career 3.61 ERA across parts of five seasons. The Angels had been using him in a middle-relief role, but the Cubs see potential for him to work in higher-leverage situations.

Going back to Los Angeles is Ballesteros, a 21-year-old catcher who was in Double-A. He has shown solid offensive tools, hitting .269 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs this year. However, the Cubs have depth behind the plate in their system, making him a logical piece to move for immediate help on the mound.

The trade gives Chicago another live arm as they try to climb back into the playoff picture. Zeferjahn is expected to join the team in the coming days and could be available out of the bullpen as soon as this weekend.