Chicago Cubs: Examining the trade market for possible pitching help

Alex Cobb

Alex Cobb has been an above average pitcher when healthy – keyword healthy. The 29-year-old has missed parts of four seasons with various ailments, but there’s no denying his talent.

There are various reasons why Cobb would be a great fit with the Cubs. He wouldn’t cost a über prospect in exchange for his services for one, and he’s having a good season. Perhaps the best reason why the Cubs should try to acquire him would be his contract.

Cobb will be a free agent after this season, but it’s unlikely he’d command a big deal. After all, he has been hurt a number of times throughout his career, so there won’t be too much incentive to give him a lengthy deal.

If the Cubs do acquire him and he performs well, then all the more reason to keep him, especially since the team needs pitching help next season anyway.

Chris Archer

Another Ray makes our list, but their two different cases. Whereas it’s hard to tell what Cobb will be moving forward, we know what Chris Archer brings to the table: above average stuff with flashes of brilliance now and then.

Rumors have been swirling that Archer and the Cubs would be an ideal fit and it’s hard to disagree. He would undoubtedly make the staff better, and the best part is he won’t be a free agent until at least the end of the 2019 season.

With that being said, it’ll take quite the haul to land his services. His numbers don’t necessarily match up with the cost. However, it would be worth it not only for this season but moving forward as well.