Cubs: Alec Mills is making the most of a situation he probably doesn’t love

Saying that things are not going as planned for the Chicago Cubs is a drastic understatement. While it’s still very early in the season, the Cubs are already sitting at 4-6, good for fourth place in the National League Central.

Up to this point, the team’s offense is arguably the worst in baseball and there is a lot of work that needs to be done. Things aren’t looking up, and there are many issues to be addressed going forward, but one bright spot of the team has been reliever Alec Mills.

Mills, 29, has been around for a while but did not have his first run as a full-time starter in the big leagues until last year. When he was good, he was outstanding. This was evident more so than at any other point during his no-hitter on September 13.

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Despite the no-no, inconsistencies plagued the right-hander all season. That very issue, as well as other pitchers in the mix for spots on the roster, led to him not making the starting rotation going into the 2021 regular season.

It should be noted that while he did not initially make the starting rotation, he is the next guy in line to take on a starting role in the rotation if needed. In 2020, Mills started 11 games and posted a 4.48 ERA. Over the course of the spring, Mills posted a 5.40 ERA in four games and didn’t look particularly sharp. But he has already positively impacted the team during the regular season, showcasing an impressive versatility.

Cubs: Alec Mills has value in any role

So far in 2021, Mills has made four relief appearances, posting a 1.59 ERA across 5 2/3 innings of work. Not only that, the right-hander logged his first save of the year last weekend. On Saturday, Mills filled in for closer Craig Kimbrel after the latter closed the two games prior.

In Saturday’s outing, Mills threw 2 1/3 innings out of the bullpen and earned his first save of the season. All of Mills’ appearances this season represent the type of reliever the 29-year-old is, a perfect example of both value and versatility.

This is what making the most of a situation you might not be particularly thrilled about looks like. Sure, Mills probably would rather be starting, but he’s doing everything he can to cement himself into the team’s plans moving forward. No matter where he’s being used, he’s a guy who is doing what he can to help the Cubs succeed.