Chicago Cubs News: Options at closer; Grading Montgomery

With the Winter Meeting over, the Chicago Cubs did address their bullpen and starter situation. Maybe not enough for most, but it’s better than it was. But plenty of questions came out on the meetings, ones the Cubs’ will need to address.

With the Winter Meetings coming to a close, the Chicago Cubs did address their pitching staff needs. Now, they might not have added one of the top tier pitchers for their rotation, but the Cubs are better than they were before. The bullpen is where they made the most headway, and things can still happen after the meetings are over. Might the Cubs still work a trade with the Indians for Danny Salazar?

Without a closer signed–at least like Wade Davis–, the Cubs still have several options available. With the additions of Brandon Morrow and Steve Cishek, they could input one of those two in the closer role. And even then, they still have other in-house options available to close out games. Davis is still on the market, and it is possible he could again sign with the Cubs. The talk of a Zach Britton trade has been rumored as well.

Mike Montgomery has been a valuable swingman for the Cubs over the past few seasons. But it’s become clear that he wants a chance to start for the Cubs. And if not here, then somewhere else. It’s not a “demand,” but it sure did sound like one. Montgomery probably deserves his chance, especially if the Cubs have a spot open in the rotation. But he’s not just going to be given the role. He’s going to have to earn it.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs closer options for 2018’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Monty wants the chance to start’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Grading Montgomery’s season’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Will meeting sparks light the stove?‘ – ESPN

‘STL does the right thing for Piscotty’ – MLB.com

#Cubs on Twitter

Steve Cishek’s deal with the #Cubs, as reported by @Ken_Rosenthal, is for two years in the $12-14 million range. Pending physical.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) December 14, 2017

3 throat surgeries later, #Cubs announcer Pat Hughes gives a voice to the health scare that threatened his career. My column https://t.co/jE2oW6mrZh Video/photos by @StaceyWescott1
— David Haugh (@DavidHaugh) December 14, 2017

Realistically the only chance for a Wade Davis/Cubs reunion is if the #Cubs trade for a starting pitcher. Budget wise, both Wade Davis and Alex Cobb is not in the cards. #Hotstove
— Charles the Cat™ (@CharlsMeow) December 14, 2017

Next: Adding Morrow a high risk, high reward signing

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