Chicago Cubs: Who’s the new David Bote; Missed reliever?

Last season, the Chicago Cubs David Bote came on the scene and was a huge plus for an injury-riddled team. Who might the new Bote be? And did the Cubs miss out on a big-name reliever?

When the Chicago Cubs lost Kris Bryant, some doomsday fans thought the season was over. But a lesser known prospect in David Bote–who was up often last season–filled in wonderfully. Even after tailing off in the second half (who didn’t?), his value couldn’t be understated. Is there another Bote in the Cubs group of prospects that could break onto the scene this year? Maybe a Mark Zagunis, who’s had a fantastic spring and might not have many chances left as a Cub?

There’s been a perception of the Cubs bullpen this spring that it’s been ‘terrible,’ as a Facebook user said. Does that mean they should have signed a bigger name guy this season, even a Craig Kimbrel? While that would have been nice, they didn’t need to. And if you delve into those spring stats, you’ll find the guys that will be in that pen come Opening Day have pitched just fine.

Part of writing about the Cubs is that we don’t always have the luxury to just ‘let them play this year’ and see what happens. Writers aren’t wired that way, and neither is the Cubs’ organization. So while there may be concern about this year’s bullpen, is it too early to start looking at who’ll be out there in 2020? Many of the names from this year are in their final year, and the Cubs will need to make some decisions.

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These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Who could be this year’s’ David Bote?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Did the Cubs miss out on a big name reliever?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Is it too early to worry about the Cubs bullpen for 2020?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs schedule by network’ – Cubs Analyst

’30 breakout prospects – 1 per team’ – MLB.com

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