5 left-handed relievers the Cubs should consider in quest to bolster the bullpen

2. Scott Alexander

Scott Alexander had a similar season to Coulombe's in 2024. He is a 35-year-old who missed a significant chunk of the season with a rib contusion and rotator cuff issue, resulting in multiple IL stints. But he was extremely effective when he did pitch, collecting 10 holds, a 2.56 ERA and a 31/15 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 38 2/3 innings.

As another veteran 35-year-old with decent success and injury concerns, Alexander should be very affordable. He would likely cost the Cubs somewhere in the $3-5 million range per year, which is very doable as long as it is a short deal.

His pitching arsenal is anchored by a low-velocity but highly effective sinker, which generates weak ground ball contact, and a slider that has become a key strikeout pitch against both lefties and righties.

3. A.J. Minter

One of the most reliable relievers in baseball right now is A.J. Minter, who boasts a career 3.28 ERA over 348 1/3 Major League innings. The 31-year-old will be a bit more costly than Alexander or Coulombe since he is a bit younger, has fewer health concerns and has a better track record of consistency. He is probably seeking a multi-year deal with an average value between $7-10 million, possibly making the Cubs a less likely suitor.

His hip injury aside, which landed him on the IL twice in 2024, there is little to dislike about Minter. He is a proven veteran with postseason success who would finally give a definitive answer to the Cubs' ongoing lefty-reliever deficiency. Minter notably contributed significantly to the Braves’ 2021 World Series title, throwing 12 innings in the postseason and maintaining an ERA of 3.00 during that run. Minter's regular season highlights include his ability to manage both high-leverage late-game situations and extended relief outings.


Minter relies heavily on a high-velocity fastball (94.5 average mph in 2024) paired with an effective cutter, which helps him induce swings and misses. His role as both a setup man and occasional closer demonstrates his versatility and reliability​ that would be valuable assets for Chicago.