Cubs Rumors: Three closers to pursue at the trade deadline

The Chicago Cubs are in desperate need of bullpen help, and there are a few teams that may look to move their closers at the deadline.

Although it feels like the season just started, the trade deadline will soon be upon us. The Chicago Cubs are likely to be very active given their strong performance so far and significant need for anybody who can throw a ball halfway decent out of the bullpen. If they want to compete in October, a 7.30 bullpen ERA isn’t going to cut it.

Closer Craig Kimbrel’s struggles have left the team without a definite solution at the back end of the bullpen. Jeremy Jeffress has done well enough to close out games with support from Rowan Wick, but the team can’t ride these two forever, and everyone else sends chills down your spine. The Cubs need some support, and, thankfully, they have a few options to look into this year.

There are more than a few teams that may look to offload their closers for the right trade. We’ve already discussed a few relievers the team could pursue like Trevor Rosenthal or potentially a game-changing move for someone like Kirby Yates. Still, they need to explore all the options available, even if it means merely obtaining another lefty out of the ‘pen aside from Kyle Ryan.

The closers that may be on the market this year range from more expensive, high-end relievers to solid arms that are, at the very least, an improvement on what we currently have. Regardless of their status, all of these guys could give the team a much-needed shot in the arm and could be realistically obtained by the Cubs if they so desire. Here are a few potential options that best fit the team’s needs.