Chicago Cubs: Where does Jake Arrieta land now?
By David Hill
Milwaukee Brewers
The Chicago Cubs divisional rivals, the Milwaukee Brewers, have a need atop their rotation. Jake Arrieta could be the answer.
For a while, the Brewers were seemingly determined to heat up the hot stove on their own. After their surprising run last season, Milwaukee drastically changed their outfield. Lorenzo Cain was added on a five year contract, and the Brewers acquired Christian Yelich in a trade. Now, attention needs to be paid to the pitching staff, particularly the starting rotation.
One of the teams known to have made an offer to Yu Darvish, the Brewers have an opening atop their rotation. Jimmy Nelson, who had a breakout 2017 campaign, is going to miss a chunk of 2018. If the Brewers have designs on contending once again, landing a pitcher like Arrieta could make a dramatic difference.
Milwaukee had reportedly been interested in signing Arrieta before their pursuit of Darvish. Now with the top free agent pitcher off the board, it may be time to revisit their conversations with the former Cubs starter. The Brewers have money to spend, and have displayed a willingness to improve the roster for the coming year.
Jake Arrieta may not be an ace, but he would be the type of pitcher the Brewers need. With an improved outfield, getting that top of the rotation arm may be key in keeping pace with the Cubs.