Cubs quietly add depth as bigger deadline swings loom

The Chicago Cubs are never shy about adding pitching depth to the organization, especially veterans who have Major League experience. The Cubs' latest venture aligned with that trend is adding right-handed pitcher Zach Pop to the organization on a minor-league deal.

Pop has 162 1/3 career innings at the Major League level, posting an ERA of 4.88 while striking out just under 18 percent of the hitters he has faced. This season, Popp has five appearances at the Major League level while splitting time with the Seattle Mariners and New York Mets. It's been a forgetful season so far, however, as Pop's ERA sits at 14.85 in 6 2/3 innings of work. Armed with a fastball in the upper 90s, Pop was a worthwhile gamble for a Cubs' front office that is always on the search for pitchers to add as depth.

The Cubs bringing in Pop is very similar to why they may have interest in Erick Fedde, who was recently designated for assignment by the St. Louis Cardinals. Pop has experience at the Major League level, and with the Cubs unable to add pitchers via trade after July 31, adding minor-league depth was believed to be a priority for the organization.

Cubs deadline buildup begins with under-the-radar roster move

It's also worth mentioning that the Cubs could possibly trade one of Jordan Wicks or Ben Brown before the deadline. While Brown and Wicks currently have uncertain roles as it pertains to the Cubs' pitching staff at the Major League level, they remain arms in the organization who have experience. If the Cubs are moving them, regardless of the deal, Pop's arrival ensures the organizational depth remains in place.

Of course, larger moves loom for the Cubs ahead of the deadline. By most accounts, the Cubs are aiming to add a frontline starting pitcher who is under control beyond this season. Kris Bubic of the Kansas City Royals, Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins, and MacKenzie Gore are recent names who have come to the forefront of Cubs rumors.

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