Chicago Cubs: 3 trade deadline targets to bolster the bullpen
The Chicago Cubs must add to their struggling bullpen before the trade deadline if they desire to be serious World Series contenders. There are several interesting names to consider that would instantly bring stability to the ‘pen.
The Chicago Cubs have one of the worst bullpens in the National League and in all of baseball. Combined, they have posted a 4.44 BB/9 (worst in MLB), 8.88 K/9 (T-7th worst in MLB), and 0.6 fWAR (8th worst in MLB). This performance has resulted in several close games being handed away over the course of this season — a sight that fans have become accustomed to witnessing over past few years.
Theo Epstein and the front office recognized the deficiency in the bullpen and responded with the signing of Craig Kimbrel. Kimbrel has shown signs that he is ready to make an impact, touching 98 mph with regularity and displaying his signature nasty curve-ball. However, with any pitcher signed mid-season, there will be a natural ramp up time until they are fully effective as before.
The Kimbrel signing will have a secondary impact on the bullpen aside from just his performance on the field. Pedro Strop and Steve Cishek have been bumped back to 7th and 8th inning duties while other struggling relievers should be able to take on lower leverage roles going forward. In addition, if the Cubs can get Morrow to return before the end of the season, the back end of the bullpen will appear much more formidable.
Despite the potential for a great bullpen, Morrow returning with elite effectiveness is a huge question mark. In addition, there are several relievers that have largely proven to be ineffective for the majority of the 2019 season. Mike Montgomery is the 2nd worst qualified reliever in the MLB (-0.6 fWAR) and could benefit from a change of scenery. Tyler Chatwood is in a similar boat, continuing to post dismal results (5.49 FIP, -0.3 fWAR).
The front office needs to consider all potential bullpen options before this year’s trade deadline. Ideally, they would add one or two relievers that possess good command and high strikeout ability. They also should ensure that at least one of their acquisitions is a lefty, as a tandem of Montgomery, Kyle Ryan, and Randy Rosario doesn’t fill most fans with an abundance of confidence.
With several teams expected to be sellers this trade deadline, there appears to be a plethora of relief pitching that should be available over the coming weeks. I have identified three players that I believe the Cubs could realistically deal for and should consider acquiring in order for the bullpen to be more of a strength going forward.