These men were Cubs, but just for a single contest.
Over the last few years, I’ve posted articles here commemorating Cubs who played in just one game for the team, from 1970-2009, during the 2010s, in 2020-21 and in 2022-23.
This year, just two men played in a single contest for the Cubs, so let’s take a look at those appearances.
Gavin Hollowell, Sept. 23
The righthander pitched the last 1x innings of a 6-2 loss to the Phillies. He allowed a pair of hits, but no runs.
The highlight of his single appearance in a Cubs uniform was probably this strikeout of Kyle Schwarber [VIDEO].
Hollowell turns 27 next month. He’s also pitched in the majors with the Rockies, without much success. However, he has option years remaining, so I can see the Cubs keeping him around at least through Spring Training next year to see what they’ve got.
Enoli Paredes, Sept. 24
Paredes threw the ninth inning of a 10-4 blowout win over the Phillies, so he was the guy who got the handshake when the game was over.
He retired all three batters he faced on just nine pitches. This strikeout of Edmundo Sosa ended the game [VIDEO].
Paredes just turned 29. It’s a bit surprising the Brewers let him go, as he threw pretty well for them (1.74 ERA, 1.113 WHIP in 17 relief appearances). He’s out of options, but I can see the Cubs taking a look at him next spring, or maybe trying to run him through waivers if they need the 40-man roster spot.
So it’s possible both these men could exit the “one-game Cubs” list in 2025.
Honorable mention to Jesús Tinoco, who appeared in two games for the Cubs (July 19 and July 26, four innings, no runs allowed) and managed to be in three organizations (Royals, Cubs, Marlins) while the White Sox were on their 21-game losing streak.