Chicago Cubs: Four free agent options to strengthen the starting rotation
By Nick Stevens
Chris Archer can be a rebound option for the Chicago Cubs.
One of the bigger low-cost/high-upside free agent options available this winter is starting pitcher Chris Archer. For teams like the Chicago Cubs who are looking to add to their starting rotation depth without breaking the bank, taking a flier on Archer should be heavily considered.
Previously with the Cubs as a minor leaguer, Archer did not pitch in 2020 after thoracic outlet surgery and recently entered the market after the Pittsburgh Pirates expectedly declined to pick up his option for 2021.
Archer pitched well in his six-plus seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, successfully navigating his way through the American League East. In 179 career games with the Rays, Archer recorded a 3.69 ERA and struck out a hair under 10/9 IP across 1,063 innings, many of those against daunting New York and Boston lineups.
His time in Pittsburgh wasn’t as successful, but he did end the 2019 season on a very high note. In four August starts, Archer recorded a 3.00 ERA, allowed zero home runs, and struck out 27 hitters to just four walks in 18 innings. That could be something to build on, even after missing all of 2020.
TOS surgery isn’t a deathblow to pitchers and all signs point to Chris Archer being ready to go whenever the 2021 season begins. His market could be competitive, but the Chicago Cubs would be smart to make a run for him.