Chicago Cubs: Karl Ravech talks Cubs-Cardinals, Cole Hamels addition

Chicago Cubs: There will be good and bad with Cole Hamels

Last week, I broke down some of the numbers regarding Hamels and what he’s done so far this season. At first glance, there is a lot more ‘bad’ than ‘good’, but there’s still some things I like about the trade – including a sterling road ERA and a deep postseason experience.

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Regardless of how one feels about the Hamels move, one thing is abundantly clear – the status quo is not sustainable, especially if Chicago wants to reach the NLCS for a fourth consecutive season.

"“The question mark around Darvish is out there, “said Ravech. “I’ve done a few Chatwood games and they haven’t been pleasant to watch and I’m not even invested in the team like Joe Maddon or the players. But it’s a real difficult game when he’s on the mound given his ability to control or command the strike zone.”"

Darvish, of course, hasn’t pitched in more than two months. At this point, I’d be shocked to see him on the mound before late August – which doesn’t bode well for getting him tuned up for the postseason. Chatwood? Well, let’s just hope his recent transition to the bullpen allows him to get right so the next two years of this contract don’t bite quite as hard.

In reference to Hamels, who finishes his Rangers career with a 38-21 record, 3.90 ERA and 4.38 FIP, Ravech made his expectations perfectly clear. The big left-hander isn’t a world-beater anymore – nor should fans expect that.

"“I think for sure the second part – that is who they’re getting,” he said in reference to Hamels’ struggles with home runs and walks this season). “But again, to me, somebody like Hamels is capable of a game or two where they give you five really good innings.”"