Chicago Cubs Rumors: 3 options to replace closer Craig Kimbrel
By Ryan Heckman
2. Jeremy Jeffress
Arguably the most impressive relief pitcher the Cubs have had in the early stages of this season is veteran righty Jeremy Jeffress. Entering the Majors back in 2010, Jeffress has long been a journeyman, playing for several teams and never spending more than three consecutive years with one ball club.
His best year came in 2018 with the rival Milwaukee Brewers, where he posted a career-low ERA of just 1.29. That season, Jeffress pitched 76.2 innings, facing 299 batters and being credited with just 11 earned runs.
Entering Monday, in his first season with the Cubs, Jeffress had faced 14 batters without allowing a hit and striking out two batters while allowing just one walk. The Cubs didn’t need Jeffress to end the night against the Royals as they leaned on Wick and Casey Sadler.
Jeffress, though, has looked every bit of a bargain for Chicago and very well could be the best option as the new closer, if Ross decided to make a swap.