The Chicago Cubs need to stop doing bullpen-games.
Chicago has lost three consecutive bullpen-games and if they don’t get a quality starting pitcher at the trade deadline, it will spell trouble down the stretch.
The Cubs have been linked to just about every starting pitcher that is or could be available, but most of the starters that are looked at as guys who could start a playoff game aren’t having great seasons.
Sandy Alcantara was seen as the top pitcher that could be dealt this season, but do the Cubs want to pursue a pitcher with the highest ERA out of qualified starters?
Zac Gallen is another headliner with horrible stats this season, but both pitchers have shown that they are ace-caliber.
ESPN’s Jesse Rogers wrote about how the Cubs will be approaching the trade deadline with just eight days to go.
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“The Cubs are looking for a starting pitcher first and foremost, but won't part with any top prospects for rentals. They would be willing to trade a young hitter for a cost-controlled pitcher or one already under contract past this season,” wrote Rogers. “They are desperate to add an arm who can help while Jameson Taillon recovers from a calf injury. Bullpen games in Taillon's place haven't gone well.”
According to Jon Sciambi during the series finale against the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday, the Cubs’ bullpen ERA since July 1 is 6.44.
Bullpen-games are the main reason why their ERA has ballooned this month. The Cubs need to put a stop to it, and they have the resources to do so.
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