3 relievers for Chicago Cubs to target
By David Hill
The Chicago Cubs are looking to contend in 2022. That much has been made clear by their moves prior to the lockout, particularly their three year deal with Marcus Stroman. There is a lot of work left to do despite those signings if the Cubs are going to actually compete.
That work will include the bullpen. The Cubs already needed to address their relief corps as it was, but that is particularly the case as they have lost Codi Heuer for the season. This leaves the Cubs without someone who is expected to be a key late inning piece.
Three relievers for the Chicago Cubs
Fortunately, there are plenty of relievers available in free agency. The trade market could have some interesting options as well, including possible answers for the ninth inning. Although the Cubs did not do much for the bullpen prior to the lockout, they can make up for that time.
The Chicago Cubs need to bolster their bullpen if they are going to contend in 2022. Let’s look at some possible options.
Craig Kimbrel
Yes, the Chicago Cubs traded Craig Kimbrel away at the deadline. And it would make sense to bring him back now.
As it is, the Cubs traded Kimbrel at the height of his value, landing Heuer and Nick Madrigal in return. As he was in the midst of an All Star season and had established himself as the best reliever available at the deadline, the Cubs did well to land two players that could be long term parts of their future.
The problem was that Kimbrel immediately fell apart in a setup role with the White Sox. They did exercise his $16 million option for 2022, but specifically with the idea that they would trade him. However, given his struggles last season, and his salary for the upcoming year, they may be hard pressed to receive the same sort of return.
Enter the Cubs. As strange as it may be to trade for someone that was dealt away just a few months prior, their needs have changed. If they can get Kimbrel back for less than they received, it would still be an absolute bargain.
The Chicago Cubs traded Craig Kimbrel to the White Sox at the trade deadline. It is time to bring their closer back.