Chicago Cubs: 3 free agent relievers who could make all the difference

Chicago Cubs: Pricier, but Collin McHugh would be worth every penny

After struggling in 2019 and not throwing a pitch in 2020, Collin McHugh signed a one-year prove-it deal with the Tampa Bay Rays and underwent a career renaissance. McHugh was nothing short of dominant in his short tenure with the Rays, sporting just a 1.55 ERA, a K/9 in the double digits for just the second time in his career (10.4), just a 1.7 BB/9, and a minuscule HR/9 of 0.4.

The Rays got the most they could’ve out of McHugh, and now he’ll likely cash out in a big way, and the Cubs would be foolish to not kick the tires. He’s likely to get a somewhat pricey deal, which could be scary for a 34-year-old reliever, but it’s hard to argue that it wouldn’t be worth it. The Cubs stated they want to spend money intelligently this winter, and McHugh would be a perfect signing to solidify the backend of the bullpen.

McHugh may not be on the Cubs’ priority list, as they may want to spend big money on starters this offseason, but it would be foolish to not have an interest. The Naperville native truly elevated his game this past season, and if the team wants a bonafide closer that could be within their price range, McHugh could be that guy.

Otherwise, there’s plenty of other solid relief options that won’t fetch top dollar that Hoyer should be monitoring, and it’ll be important to try and hit on these signings.