The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move in their pitching lineup by designating Michael Arias for assignment and signing Colin Rea. Following this, the New York Yankees confirmed the trade to acquire Arias for cash considerations. The young pitcher, originally signed as a shortstop in the Dominican Republic, was transitioned to pitching in 2021.

Arias, now 23, holds a minor league career ERA of 4.25 and made his Triple-A debut last season. Despite some potential, he has struggled with control, averaging 7.2 walks per nine innings in the previous season, although he boasts an impressive strikeout rate of 11.2 K/9.

His undersized 6-foot, 155-pound frame raises questions about durability and may restrict him to a bullpen role. As the No. 18 prospect in the Cubs' farm system, his release comes as a surprise to many, indicating the team's shift in strategy.