Chicago Cubs News: Darvish and Maddux; Maddon’s dilemma

One Chicago Cubs’ coach made the comparison of Yu Darvish to that of Hall of Famer Greg Maddux–only not for what you might think. And will Joe Maddon go with an extra pitcher or a position player to open the season?

Before anyone more Chicago Cubs‘ fans read the headline and say ” he’s no Greg Maddux,” let’s take a breath. Cubs pitching coach Jim Hickey said it’s not his stuff, but how he throws the ball. It’s the same release slot, every pitch. Even as good as Jake Arrieta was, he would lose his arm slot and get a little wild. For Darvish, it’s the same release with all of his pitches. After having Tommy John surgery two years ago, he might just be getting to his “peak” again.

To be honest, I thought this was a “done deal.” With an open spot on the roster, Joe Maddon would go with a pitcher as he always had to help cover some of the early innings that the Cubs starters could not. But Maddon hasn’t committed to one, leaving the status of the roster up in the air. The starters have pitched well in camp, that could be one reason. And there are plenty of hitters making their way, as well. Which way will he decide to go?

Jon Lester is off to a strong start this spring, much different than his history. To understand how different this start is for Lester, you need to look back at his past. Often, when the weather was frigid, so was Lester. As it heated up, Lester came alive. Will this spring be an indication of an improved season for him? After a dreadful 2017 campaign that saw him post some of his worst career numbers, Lester is ready to turn the page.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘A Darvish-Maddux comparison that makes sense’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Will Maddon go with a bat or an arm?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Lester off to his best start this spring’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cobb, Orioles reach a 4-year agreement’ – MLB.com

‘Braves’ Acuna sent to minors’ – Tomahawk Take

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