Chicago Cubs could still bring back Jon Lester for 2021

The Chicago Cubs have several question marks at the back of their starting rotation. They could have an answer by bringing Jon Lester back.

It was not a surprise that the Chicago Cubs decided to let Jon Lester test free agency. He had struggled in 2020, and rather than pick up his $25 million option for the upcoming season, they handed him a $10 million check. With the Cubs in a potential rebuild, and with virtually everyone on the trade block, it seemed that Lester’s time in Chicago could be over.

But that may not be the case after all. Although the two sides have yet to have any in depth discussions, the Cubs have reportedly left the door open in case he wants to return.

Lester did not exactly have a great 2020 campaign. He never seemed to find his footing in the abbreviated year, posting a 5.16 ERA and a 1.328 WHiP in his 61 innings, striking out 42 batters with 17 walks. As he is set to turn 37 years old, it is fair to be a bit concerned that he would be at the end of his rope.

Despite those rather pedestrian numbers, Lester could still be an improvement for the Cubs. The rotation behind Yu Darvish and Kyle Hendricks is a question mark, although one would have to assume that Alec Mills will have a spot. He could still hold down the fourth or fifth starter role.

Signing Lester would also mean that the Cubs are giving it one more go. With the likes of Javier Baez, Kris Bryant, and Anthony Rizzo a year away from free agency, the window is about to close. Bringing Lester back would indicate that, instead of starting a rebuilding project, the Cubs are taking one last run at the World Series.

That may ultimately determine whether or not Lester returns to Chicago. He is not likely to cost much on the open market, and the Cubs already handed him $10 million. If they decide to hold off on rebuilding for one more year, Lester may well be back in Chicago.

The Chicago Cubs and Jon Lester have not closed the door on a reunion. But it will come down to what direction the Cubs are going to take in 2021.