3 players with ties to Craig Counsell the Cubs could target

3. LHP Will Smith

One of the best candidates for the Cubs to finally fill their left-handed reliever role is Will Smith, who just won his third straight World Series ring with the Texas Rangers. Although he flashed an ERA at a peculiar 4.40, Smith still converted 22 of his 27 save opportunities and collected 8 holds when he was moved away from the closer role.

If added to the Cubs, Smith would not be taking on 9th-inning duties with Adbert Alzolay emerging as the Cubs' closer this year. However, Smith is still a solid and experienced left-handed arm who has been able to stay healthy throughout his career. As a reliever, Smith has been able to eclipse 50 innings pitched in 7 of his 10 seasons as a bullpen arm.

Two of those seasons were with the Counsell-led Brewers in 2015 and 2016 so the Cubs' new manager is familiar with Smith. Even if the Cubs don't sign a lefty reliever this winter, their options look better than last year with the emergence of flamethrower Luke Little, the return of Brandon Hughes presumably imminent, and Drew Smyly likely being relegated to bullpen duty. But still, you could never have too many arms and Smith will not cost much after making $1.5 million last year.

More Chicago Cubs News