Chicago Cubs: 5 realistic pitchers to target in free agency

Chicago Cubs: 5 Pitchers to Target in Free Agency – #4: Noah Syndergaard

Coming in at number four is Noah Syndergaard who also will see unrestricted free agency at year’s end. He comes with red flags due to a recent Tommy John surgery and experiencing a setback along the way, which could steer other teams clear. Syndergaard has been impressive throughout his career, owning a 3.31 career ERA and 9.7 strikeouts per nine frames.

Syndergaard has seen the type of success to put him near ace status when healthy. Near ace, because he has always been behind Jacob deGrom in the rotation. Looking at Syndergaard’s numbers, his only real down year was 2019. Of course, he missed all of 2020 with Tommy John surgery and does have somewhat of an extensive injury history.

Most recently, he was again shut down for six weeks with right elbow inflammation in late May. He is once again getting ready to face live hitters again. If Syndergaard can remain healthy and prove his elbow issues are now behind him, he would be a fantastic addition to the Cubs rotation.