Chicago Cubs: 3 takeaways from Kimbrel press conference
By Ryan Sikes
The Chicago Cubs have a clear plan for Kimbrel to join the Cubs but it’s not exactly public information.
Obviously, the first question everyone wanted to know is when Craig Kimbrel will be available to join the Chicago Cubs roster. Since he has missed over one-third of the 2019 season already, it will obviously require some time for him to get ready.
Kimbrel did state that he’s been staying ready down in Florida while playing long toss and throwing as many bullpen sessions as he’s ever had. Theo Epstein chimed and said the Cubs will have Kimbrel throw a bullpen session tomorrow and then he’ll be sent to Arizona for extended spring training and face live batters.
Whenever he is comfortable from there, he will be joining the Iowa Cubs for his rehab starts. If I had to guess, Kimbrel will need between three to four weeks to be ready. The team is not going to rush him just because they need a true closer right now.
Add in the fact that Kimbrel stated he has not been throwing 98 mph in his bullpen sessions, it will take some time for him to get used to being sore again. The Cubs will have to rely on Strop for the time being but this is extremely smart as the team is tied to Kimbrel through the 2021 season with a fourth-year option for 2022.
Trending. Cubs 8th round pick DJ Herz wanted to be drafted by team. light
They do not need him to rush to get ready only to hurt himself in the process and then they are back to square one in terms of the bullpen.