Chicago Cubs: Candidates for the Cubs’ 2018 starting rotation

Eddie Butler

The Chicago Cubs acquired Eddie Butler last offseason in a trade with the Colorado Rockies. It is safe to say that Butler did not live up to his expectations in Colorado. A first round draft pick in 2012, Butler made a total of 36 appearances (28 starts) over three seasons.

In those appearances, Butler recorded a 6.51 ERA and struck out just 94 batters in 159 1/3 innings pitched.

Recently, Butler was called up from Triple-A to replace Brett Anderson in the rotation. Before his call-up, Butler had an ERA of 1.17 in five starts for Iowa. In six innings against the Cardinals on Friday night he was equally as good. Butler tossed six innings of two-hit ball and struck out five while walking three.

With his success on Friday and Anderson’s struggles this season, Butler could take over the rotation spot for the remainder of this season. If that becomes the case, the Cubs have Butler under control until 2022 when he is slated to become a free agent.

Butler could provide the Cubs with a cheap option for their rotation. He could also provide long-term help as he is just 26 years of age.