Latest Cubs rumor reveals questionable Jed Hoyer target to replace Cade Horton

Navigating through injuries to Cade Horton and Matthew Boyd, the Chicago Cubs are reportedly expressing interest in free-agent starting pitcher Lucas Giolito. Giolito was the name many Cubs fans circled in the immediate aftermath of Horton's injury, and it would seem that Jed Hoyer has a similar thought.

Multiple MLB insiders with The Athletic confirmed that the Cubs, along with the San Diego Padres, have expressed an interest in Giolito. Giolito has been staying active during his free agency. During a recent bullpen session, he reached 75 pitches. There almost certainly would be a ramp-up period before he returns to a major league pitching staff.

Detailing the Cubs' interest in Giolito, the report mentions the Cubs view the former Chicago White Sox pitcher as a backend arm for the rotation. More importantly, Giolito's potential arrival would allow either Colin Rea to move back to the bullpen. It would seem likely that Javier Assad is optioned once Matthew Boyd completes his minor-league rehab assignment.

Lucas Giolito isn't the perfect option, but he is needed.

In 26 starts with the Boston Red Sox last year, Giolito got results. He posted a 3.41 ERA while striking out just under 20% of the hitters he faced. The concern lies with his expected metrics. His expected ERA was 5.01, and his expected FIP was 4.59.

Giolito recently expressed frustration with his free agency, suggesting teams weren't willing to meet his asking price. There were reports throughout the offseason that he was seeking a multi-year deal, and that was the reason he remained unsigned. Now that the season has started, it would seem unlikely that the Cubs, or any team, would need to offer a deal that extends beyond the 2026 season.

To make it clear, given the expected metrics, there would be risk involved if the Cubs were to sign Giolito. That being said, there's value in having him be able to take the mound every five days and spare the bullpen.

For a Cubs team that is expecting to finish the season in the luxury tax, taking a flyer on Giolito makes sense for where they are in the season. Giolito has the chance to bring some stability to the pitching staff while they wait for the return of Boyd later this month and Justin Steele by the start of June.

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