Chicago Cubs: Five underrated players who could make the All-Star Team

#4: Carl Edwards, Jr.

The string-bean with a mean arm is listed as the #24 fantasy relief pitcher in the NL according to Fantasy Pros. While he does not appear intimidating on the mound, what comes out of his right arm is certainly lethal. His fastball averages just above 95 MPH, but can reach 97-98 MPH at times. Add a curveball that moves 9.3 inches at a speed of 80.7 MPH, and you have batters off balance.

Carl Edwards was one of the pitchers manager Joe Maddon referred to last postseason as a player he trusted out of the pen. The importance of this only grew given Hector Rondon’s late season struggles.

You can look at the stats from the World Series and the 6.75 ERA jumps out. But, in 2 2/3 innings, Edwards allowed two runs. One of those was in a 1-0 loss, the other in the bottom of the 10th in Game 7. Had there not been defensive indifference allowing Brandon Guyer to take second base, maybe Edwards pitches the last out the World Series.

This spring has been solid for Edwards, allowing only four hits and one earned run. Should his arm stay healthy, his name will be called upon to hold games in place. With batters only hitting .120 against his skinny right arm, success is on the horizon. It could be enough for an All-Star selection.