Chicago Cubs: Hold Off On Chapman Rumors For Now
The recent rumors claiming the Chicago Cubs had a deal agreed upon for New York Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman were found to be false. This situation shows why you should ignore the majority of trade rumors around this time of year.
It’s that time of the year again right? There will be hundreds of trade rumors that never materialize, however that will not stop the chatter from spreading through social media like wildfire. We’re not far removed from the Wilmer Flores fiasco. Thankfully the rumors linking Chapman to the Cubs didn’t reach that level.
Source: Yankees discussing Chapman trade with Cubs. Possible names involved coming later today.
— Chris Meola (@ChrisMeolaTalk) June 10, 2016
Yes, that was the tweet that began the situation. Which should have raised eyebrows to begin with, while the Yankees are struggling it seems a bit earlier for them to begin selling off attractive targets. The Cubs do have a need for a left hand reliever with the struggles of Clayton Richard – however Chapman isn’t the best of fits in a tight knit Cubs clubhouse.
The rumors reached a ridiculous level with a 2nd tweet.
Source: Early names being discussed in Chapman to Cubs deal are Baez, Warren and a prospect.
— Chris Meola (@ChrisMeolaTalk) June 10, 2016
Javier Baez, Adam Warren, and a prospect for a 3 month rental of Chapman? Really?
Next: Rumor Quickly Debunked
Chapman rumors out there are completely false. Cubs are busy scouting arms, particularly relief, but haven't engaged in talks for Chapman
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) June 10, 2016
David Kaplan who covers the Cubs also chimed in.
As @sahadevsharma tweeted, the rumors on Aroldis Chapman and the Cubs are not only untrue, they're ridiculous. Don't pay attention to them.
— David Kaplan (@thekapman) June 10, 2016
Not only would moving Baez be a mistake, as the flexibility he gives Cubs manager Joe Maddon is incredible – also his approach at the plate has steadily improved making him a valuable player in the Cubs run for October.
Throwing in Warren – who the Cubs just obtained from the Yankees for Starlin Castro this off season, would be far too rich a price. Warren has regressed slightly as of late, but he still has value in the Cubs pen – especially if he cuts down on his walk totals.
Taking those two into consideration and then adding a prospect? Jed Hoyer and Theo Epstein would never make such a deal for a player than could unbalance the clubhouse and throw the bullpen out of whack. Chapman would want to close and Hector Rondon has done nothing other than be outstanding thus far.
Next: However the Cubs Are Scouting
The Cubs have had scouts on hand as they take a closer look at the Yankees bullpen, however it’s expected the team will take a look at every potential trade partners pen as we move towards the July 31st trade deadline.
On a team without a clear weakness, the bullpen is the area that concerns the Cubs the most. Their recent moves illustrate that with signing Joe Nathan, Joel Peralta, and claiming R.J. Alvarez (before optioning him to Double A Tennessee) recently. Peralta could provide quick returns if he can straighten out his kinks at Triple A Iowa.
Andrew Miller is the Yankee arm that probably catches the Cubs eye the most. The southpaw has been dominate and fills an immediate need for the Cubs. Having a dominate situational lefty would help them immensely come the playoffs. However, given the cost, he might not be the best option.
In fact, while he not have the best career peripherals, Fernando Abad of the Minnesota Twins would make a great deal of sense for the Cubs down the stretch. It probably wouldn’t take a lot to get him and his numbers this season against lefties are staggering (.100 average against). His FIP (1.96) also stands out.
Next: A Look At The Cubs/Nats Series
Abad may not be a big splash, however if the front office is able to acquire his services for a second or third level prospect it would be worth the move. The team could also chose to keep Abad around at a reasonable price, Minnesota was able to sign him to minor league deal prior to the season.