Chicago Cubs: Under the radar options for closer in 2018

If the Chicago Cubs do not sign one of the two biggest free agent relievers this winter in Greg Holland or Wade Davis, who will they turn to in 2018?

Wade Davis was lights-out for the Chicago Cubs in 2017. The 31-year-old who came over from the Kansas City Royals in the Jorge Soler trade logged 32 saves for the North Siders last season. In addition to that, the right-hander struck out 79 batters in 58 2/3 innings or 12.1 per nine innings.

After posting an All-Star caliber season, Davis hit the open market this winter. With multiple seasons of jaw-dropping numbers under his belt, Davis is set to make more than the $10 million he earned in 2017. For that reason, the Cubs may not be the best option for the now 32-year-old.

Greg Holland, just like Davis, is coming off a very solid season in which he did not make much money. With a base salary of $6 million and $7 million worth of incentives, Holland made $13 million closing games for the Colorado Rockies in 2017.

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At 31, Holland appeared in 61 games and and logged 57 1/3 innings pitched. In that time, Holland struck out 70 batters and recorded 41 saves.

Because of his stellar season, Holland declined an option with the Rockies and decided to test the free agent market.

Now, two pitchers with a combined 73 saves last season are free agents. As things stand right now, the Cubs do not seem to be close to a deal with either. In fact, it has been reported that a deal between Holland and the Rockies could take place soon.

With less-than-stellar chances to sign either of the two biggest arms this winter, the Cubs may have to turn to other options to fill the closer’s role in 2018. Don’t worry Cubs fans, there are some solid options.