Chicago Cubs: Minor leaguers who could play a role in the pen

Chicago Cubs: Help wanted on the left side

With Justin Wilson departing via free agency after the 2018 season, the Cubs are going to need some bullpen help on the left side in 2019. Two options come to mind in the minor leagues: Kyle Ryan and Conor Lillis-White.

The Cubs re-signed Ryan as a free agent in November after he spent 2018 with Triple-A Iowa. He had a good season in Iowa and was durable, throwing 66 innings with a 2.86 ERA. He has major league experience from his time with the Detroit Tigers. There’s a chance Ryan could start the 2019 season in the major leagues, especially if the Cubs don’t sign any more relievers before then.

Lillis-White is another option who the Cubs acquired from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for Tommy La Stella. Lillis-White has shown improvements in recent years but hasn’t broken into the big leagues yet. Between Double-A and Triple-A last season, he had a 3.50 ERA in 72 innings pitched. He may be a bit raw to bring to the big leagues already, but if the Cubs are as desperate as they seem, he and Ryan may both get an opportunity in 2019.

While there are some viable minor leaguers who could contribute to the major league bullpen this season, some of them are extremely exciting. The only way to dramatically improve the Cubs bullpen would be to spend the money and sign a free agent. However, it’s looking increasingly unlikely that’ll happen, which could give some up-and-comers an opportunity in 2019.