Cubs Rumors: Five pitchers the Cubs could target at the deadline

San Diego Padres – James Shield – Signed thru 2018: 8-3, 3.92 ERA, 137 K’s, 127.2 IP

Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

The Cubs were in the mix right down to the end with James Shields this offseason, but they didn’t want to offer any more that two-years on a deal. Maybe two and a half could work out instead. After the massive spending frenzy by Padres new GM A.J. Preller in the offseason, the season has not gone the way they hoped as they sit 8 1/2 games back in the NL West.

The Padres are looking to avoid calling it an overhaul, and just a slight rebuild. Shields didn’t sign for much more than the Cubs were looking to offer, and with taking on the contract the asking price should be reasonable for the Cubs to consider.

While his K/9 rate is the best of his career right now at 10.1, he’s also allowed the long ball more frequently. At 1.5 HR/9, that matches the highest of his career–and he pitches in a ballpark that is generally known as “pitcher-friendly”. While signed through 2018, Shields does have an opt-out in 2016, making this a potentially intriguing deal for the Cubs.

Next: Has Jamaal Charles Lost a Step?