Cubs Acquire Eli Morgan, DFA Patrick Wisdom
The Chicago Cubs acquired reliever Eli Morgan from the Cleveland Guardians, sending a minor league prospect in return. Morgan, 28, had a strong 2024 season with a 1.93 ERA over 42 innings despite injuries. Over his four-year career, he has a 3.97 ERA across 161 games. The Cubs also designated Patrick Wisdom for assignment to make room on their roster.
The Chicago Cubs acquired Eli Morgan from the Cleveland Guardians, sending a prospect in return and designating Patrick Wisdom for assignment. Morgan, 28, dealt with elbow and shoulder injuries in 2024 but excelled with a 1.93 ERA in 42 innings. Known for his three–pitch mix, including a dominant fastball, he strengthens a Cubs bullpen in need of reliability. Wisdom, 33, struggled offensively in 2024, batting .171, and saw reduced playing time
The Milwaukee Brewers’ Pat Murphy and Cleveland Guardians’ Stephen Vogt were named 2024 Managers of the Year after guiding their teams to playoff success in their first full seasons. Murphy, a former college coach, led the Brewers to a 93-69 record, topping the NL Central by 10 games. Vogt, 40, who retired as a player in 2022, managed Cleveland to a 92-69 record and an ALCS berth. This marks only the second time two first-year managers have won the award in the same year.
Stephen Vogt’s leadership helped the Cleveland Guardians overcome injuries to key starters Shane Bieber and Triston McKenzie, propelling the team to a 92-69 record with a bullpen ERA of 2.57, the best in MLB. Vogt guided the Guardians to a 16-game improvement, a playoff series win, and was awarded AL Manager of the Year. A two-time All-Star during his playing career, Vogt succeeded Terry Francona and earned widespread praise for his managerial acumen, receiving 27 of 30 first-place votes.
Stephen Vogt and Pat Murphy both reflected on their journeys after being named Managers of the Year. Vogt, the third rookie AL manager to win the award, credited Cleveland’s collaborative efforts and meticulous planning for their success. Murphy, stepping up after eight years as Milwaukee’s bench coach, acknowledged lessons learned and a natural fit for managing. Both leaders emphasized teamwork and the support of their organizations as critical to their achievements in guiding their teams to strong playoff performances.
Pat Murphy led the Brewers to surpass expectations, capturing the NL Central crown after seizing first place on May 9 and never relinquishing it. Despite having the weakest record among NL division winners, Milwaukee’s season ended in the wild-card round after a Game 3 loss to the Mets. Murphy, like Vogt, received 27 first-place votes for Manager of the Year, showcasing his impact on a team projected for mediocrity. His commitment to preparation and leadership helped redefine the Brewers’ trajectory in 2024.
