Chicago Cubs: Four free agent options to strengthen the starting rotation

If healthy, Corey Kluber can give the Chicago Cubs big-game potential.

One of the more intriguing options on the market is two-time Cy Young winner Corey Kluber. The 34-year-old has pitched just 36.2 innings over the last two seasons, resulting in the Texas Rangers declining his $17.5 million club option for 2021 and letting Kluber test the free agent market.

Before going down to injuries, Kluber was pitching his way into Hall of Fame consideration, accumulating 30.4 fWAR between 2014-2018, taking home two Cy Young Awards, multiple MVP votes, and three All-Star appearances.

Now, health is Kluber’s biggest cause for concern, but all reports indicate a normal offseason routine ahead for the free agent and optimism for a rebound in 2021.

The price tag for Corey Kluber will certainly be cheap and fall right into the wheelhouse of the Chicago Cubs and with a rotation full of reliable arms who have little issue in working deep into games, the Cubs wouldn’t have to rely on Kluber piling up the innings next season.

For someone who hasn’t pitched a full season since 2018, a large number of innings will be difficult for Kluber, but if he can give you 15-20 solid outings with the occasional big game and glimpse into his dominant past, he will worth the investment.