Cubs should consider these three free agent left-handed relievers

Cubs could pivot to an ageless wonder in Oliver Perez

Cubs fans might remember veteran left-hander Oliver Perez as the guy who gave up three consecutive homers to the North Siders during a September start in 2004.

But 17 years later, Perez has molded himself into a reliable bullpen option.

The 39-year-old had a strong three-year run in Cleveland, including a 2018 season during which he had a 1.39 ERA with a 1.74 FIP and 0.742 WHIP. Perez’s strikeout rate weakened in the last two seasons, but he still had a 2.00 ERA in 2020 and did not give up a home run in 18 innings.

Aside from his effectiveness on the bump, Perez brings the intangibles. His experiences and leadership would be invaluable for a Cubs team that has consistently demanded more leadership from its core players.

Perez was one of the outspoken figures in Cleveland’s clubhouse when Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac broke COVID-19 protocols last year. He is respected, and that respect is not to be taken lightly.

If the Cubs are intent on one-year deals anyway, why not go after Perez for cheap to see what he provides both on and off the diamond?