Cole Hamels
Maybe there is a bit of a trend in finding former members of the organization. However, each of these pitchers fits the type of low cost, high potential upside arms that the Chicago Cubs could target.
Cole Hamels is yet another one of those arms. He was expected to serve as the Braves ace in 2020, but made just one start as he missed time due to injuries to his triceps and shoulder. He ended up allowing three runs on three hits and a walk in his 3.1 innings in Atlanta, a disappointing result for both the team and Hamels.
However, Hamels was solid during his tenure with the Cubs after being acquired at the 2018 trade deadline. He posted a 3.30 ERA and a 1.289 WHiP in his 218 innings, striking out 217 batters with 79 walks.
At 37 years old, and with his injury plagued 2020 campaign, Hamels is a risk. He may not be able to be that pitcher he had been during his previous tenure in Chicago. Nonetheless, he has been a solid pitcher recently, and if healthy, could be exactly the type of arm that the Cubs need.
The Chicago Cubs are not going to land one of the top arms available. However, any of these reclamation projects could be worth the investment.