These Chicago Cubs players could be headed to the All-Star Game

Chicago Cubs: No piece of the team has been better than the bullpen

The Chicago Cubs have built a Death Star out of their bullpen and it has been a major reason for their turnaround. Their performance throughout May was particularly inspiring as they combined for a 38 inning scoreless streak and were near the top of the league in everything from WAR and ERA to strikeout percentage. They have some options as far as potential All-Stars go.

The obvious one, of course, is their closer Craig Kimbrel who has successfully revived his career since a disastrous start in Chicago. He’s sporting a miniscule 0.75 ERA with 14 saves in 24 appearances so far, making him one of the most effective closers in the league. He also ranks ninth with 2.0 WPA, just above Gerrit Cole.

Kimbrel’s practically a lock for the All-Star Game, but at least one of his friends should join him. The three that have the best shot, from what we’ve seen so far, are likely Ryan Tepera, Andrew Chafin, and Dan Winkler.

All three have a compelling case to make it to Colorado, but I also tend to agree with Bleacher Nation that non-closers don’t get the same love with regards to All-Star nods. That said, if I had to pick one to get the nod, my gut says Winkler given that he’s literally only given up two runs so far.

We still have a short stretch to go before the All-Star break, but it looks like the Cubs are guaranteed a couple spots on the roster with the possibility of more if Rizzo, Contreras, or Baez get hot or any of the three relievers make it. All-in-all, it’s a solid showing for the team and one reflective of their play this season.