Cubs’ bullpen looks to improve on solid 2014 season

While relievers may not be the most popular players on a team, they are some of the most important. They handle high-pressure situations late in games and can be the difference between a contender and a pretender.

The Cubs seem to have improved in most facets of their roster, but what about the bullpen? They improved last season due to the emergence of closer Hector Rondon and reliever Neil Ramirez, who helped the bullpen ERA go from sixth worst in the league to middle of the pack.

Cubs president Theo Epstein said he was not actively looking to add players to the bullpen because he likes some of the pieces the Cubs already have.

“We do have some nice arms on the next level down that are probably going to start the year at Triple-A and be available to us,” Epstein said in November.

Due to the Cubs having players who produced last year in the majors as well as the minors, they have not made many bullpen signings, but there could be some different faces waiting for late game opportunities.

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Former foe Jason Motte was signed in December to strengthen the pen. Motte, who pitched for the Cardinals from 2008 on, missed all of 2013 and most of the 2014 season due to Tommy John surgery and back issues. From 2010-12, he was one of the best relievers in the league with his worst ERA in that time being 2.75 when he was given the closer role. If healthy, Motte adds a power arm the Cubs will be able to use as a set-up man and closer if Rondon needs a rest.

With a logjam at the end of the starting rotation, the odd man out could come out of the bullpen in long relief situations. Among the many candidates are Tsuyoshi Wada, Jacob Turner, Felix Doubront, Travis Wood and Edwin Jackson. Manager Joe Maddon has not said who has the edge for the fifth starter spot and long relief position. He could possibly keep two of the aforementioned pitchers in the bullpen by the time the season begins. It will likely be decided after spring training when he sees all the pitchers in action.

The bullpen will most likely be rounded out with Justin Grimm, Ramirez and Pedro Strop as relievers leading to closer Hector Rondon to seal victories. Some dark horses for the bullpen are Zac Rosscup, Brian Schlitter and Armando Rivero who will be looking to show their stuff in spring training.

Next: Alcantara and Baez must earn their way back to Chicago