Chicago Cubs: Fear not, there is still quality in the farm system

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The next closer?

Did you know that the Chicago Cubs have the Pacific Coast League’s best closer? With 15 saves in 19 chances, Matt Carasiti is the best in Triple-A. And, with the Iowa Cubs, he is holding batters to a .190 average. And, in 36 1/3 innings pitched, he tallied 51 strikeouts.

Ah, but there is one small caveat to this situation. Carasiti was acquired by the Cubs on June 26, 2017. That is the day that the Colorado Rockies traded him for Zac Rosscup. And, with Wade Davis on a one-year deal, he could make an appearance sooner than later.

Since moving to the closer role in late 2014, Carasiti converted 70 of his 86 chances. While that is not spectacular, it is still rather solid. His walk rate has dropped this season, and he is started to get more ground-outs over fly-balls. That translates well into Wrigley Field.

Carasiti is making the Cubs’ system stronger. While he was not ranked in the top 20 prospects for the Rockies – mostly because his debut in Colorado last season did not go well – he is a surprise addition to the roster.

Next: John Lackey in the midst of one of his worst seasons ever

Should his progression continue, he could be part of the backend of a solid Cubs bullpen soon.