Chicago Cubs: Did the Cubs make a mistake with Jason Hammel?

Chicago Cubs: A ‘scenic’ route to two of their original options

Eventually, both Montgomery and Butler joined the starting rotation. But this didn’t happen directly due to the decision to let Hammel go. It happened because Anderson and Kyle Hendricks both suffered injuries.

Last year as a starter, Montgomery threw 69 1/3 innings over 14 starts. During those starts he posted a 4.15 ERA, giving up 58 hits and 21 walks. He also struck out 56.

Butler made 11 starts last year, spanning 51 1/3 innings. During those starts he posted a 3.86 ERA – with a 29-to-27 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

Both Montgomery and Butler were better starting pitchers than Anderson was last season. But neither of the younger cost controlled pitchers exactly seized a spot in the rotation.