Chicago Cubs News: What to look for this winter from the Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have to look at this team from the business side, not just what the fans want. The Cubs need pitching but don’t want to blow it all on only a few guys. So what should we expect to see?

When the Chicago Cubs came into the 2017 season, they made a few changes, but the team as a whole remained intact. The Cubs quickly discovered that it doesn’t always work out when you do try that. The Cubs had their issues at the plate as well as on the mound. But the bullpen is where they saw the most significant decline. The Cubs biggest success in the pen was Wade Davis, who is now a free agent. Will the Cubs sign him, and who else will follow?

The Cubs did gain a left-handed arm in the bullpen, claiming Randy Rosario off waivers from the Minnesota Twins. The 23-year-old lefty has little experience in the majors (2 1/3 innings) but has been a successful pitcher in the minors. What’s more important is that Rosario was moved to a full-time reliever last season. His splits may define him, as he allowed a .169 average against lefties in 2017, but a .296 clip against righties. The potential to be a lefty specialist is already there, and he’s young.

If Davis signs elsewhere, the Cubs will need a closer. It’s a spot that they can’t “wing it.” They need to have a quality arm that can close games, while possibly working towards setting someone up for the job in the future. They thought that could be Carl Edwards, Jr., but that plan seems to be put on hold for now. There are several names out there the Cubs could trade for, but are any of them worth the cost?

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘What’s more important in the coming offseason?‘ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs claim Rosario off waivers’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Trades for a closer the Cubs could consider’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Free agent’s to hit the market shortly’ – MLB.com

‘Complete odds to win the 2018 World Series’ – ESPN

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