The Chicago Cubs need help in their bullpen.
Not only do they not have a closer, but their bullpen is short on experience as a whole. Brad Boxberger is the only reliever on the roster with a history of closing in the majors. Rowan Wick and Manuel Rodriguez could be in the mix for saves as well but this is not an ideal situation for a team that is hoping to contend. While Aroldis Chapman could be an option, the Cubs may want to look elsewhere for a possible closer. A pitcher such as Zack Britton could be a perfect fit.
Chicago Cubs may want to consider Zack Britton for late innings
Britton has not spent time as a primary closer since 2017. He has missed time over the past two seasons due to shoulder soreness, a hamstring injury, and elbow woes that required Tommy John surgery. When he was able to get on the mound over the past two seasons, he posted a disappointing 6.16 ERA and a 2.000 WHiP over his 19 innings, striking out 17 batters with 20 walks.
Despite his mediocre performance, there are several reasons why Britton could be an option in Chicago. Cubs ownership had spoken about being strategic with the luxury tax and are projected to be $12 million below that mark. Britton would be relatively inexpensive given his recent injuries and struggles, making him a potentially cost effective option.
The Cubs also have a drastic dearth of lefties in their bullpen. As it currently stands, Brandon Hughes is the only lefty reliever that would seemingly be guaranteed a spot on the Opening Day roster. The likes of Anthony Kay, Roenis Elias, and Ryan Borucki are on hand, but they may not be the second lefty that the Cubs need.
Britton also has that experience in the ninth inning. Although it has been some time since he has closed, just the fact that he had, and at a high level, is enough for him to still be considered for such a role. After all, Boxberger has not been a closer since 2018 and may be the favorite for the ninth inning. Britton has more experience and a longer track record.
The Chicago Cubs need someone that can close out games and another lefty. They could get both at a bargain price in Zack Britton.