Chicago Cubs Rumors: 3 options to replace closer Craig Kimbrel

3. Closer by committee

One option that Ross could opt for is operating with a closer-by-committee approach. If he wasn’t comfortable strolling one particular guy out there night-in and night-out, or wanted to ensure these guys were well-rested and in the right state of mind, he could use a couple different guys on occasion.

Of course, Wick and Jeffress would be options to partake in this type of approach. Another option might be Allen, whom the Cubs just signed.

Chicago could also throw in Casey Sadler, here and there, as he’s had a fairly decent start to the season as well.

Entering Monday’s game with the Royals, Sadler had pitched three innings, striking out four batters while allowing three walks. He hasn’t been the most consistent, but Sadler has shown flashes of real strong work.

Monday night, he was the first reliever sent in following seven shutout innings from starting pitcher Alec Mills. Sadler allowed one hit, no runs and struck out a batter in his quick work. Nine of his 15 pitches were strikes and he did not walk a batter.

If Ross wanted to go with a committee, he would likely go with a combination of Wick, Jeffress or Sadler. All three would be adequate choices at this point, especially in comparison to Kimbrel.