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Chicago Cubs: Carl Edwards’ success quickly becoming a pattern
Last season, Carl Edwards Jr. showed flashes of greatness coming out of the bullpen for the Chicago Cubs. But he also struggled with command, walking batters in tight situations.
Perhaps one of the most impressive performances of the weekend in the Chicago Cubs’ four-game sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field was that of the bullpen. In four games and nine innings, relievers allowed just one earned run and three hits total.
Highlighting the bullpen effort over the weekend was the success of right-handed reliever Carl Edwards Jr. The lanky fireballer appeared in three of the four games in a setup role for closer Brandon Morrow and allowed no hits, walked one and struck out three.
With his stellar performance over the weekend, Edwards lowered his ERA to a microscopic 0.66. He appears to have solidified his position as the bullpen’s setup man, at least for the time being.
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Too many walks last year
One of Edwards’ main struggles last year was a lack of command. In key situations, he often walked too many batters and worked himself into trouble. But at least so far, walks do not seem to be an issue for Edwards.
In 13 appearances this season, Edwards has walked just five total batters. His WHIP has reached 0.878. He averaged a WHIP of 1.010 last season.
Whether it is the impact of new pitching coach Jim Hickey, or just an increased amount of maturity and experience at the Major League level, Edwards seems to have figured something out this season. His performance so far is something for Cubs fans to get excited about.
The closer of the future?
Edwards’ strong performance of late also bodes well for the future. In the past, some had considered Edwards the potential closer of the future for the Cubs. Of course, this day would come once Morrow’s contract ends in a few years.
After his inconsistencies last season, it was easy to question whether Edwards could be the closer one day. However, if he continues his recent streak of success, there is no reason he could not be considered for the role eventually.
Next: Cubs looking for fourth-straight victory
If nothing else, Edwards is thriving in the setup role right now. A reliable setup man was something the Cubs lacked last season. If he can continue to succeed in that role, the bullpen will be headed towards a successful season and an improved postseason performance after last year’s struggles.