Cubs' chances of landing a World Series champion reliever just improved

The Chicago Cubs have a lengthy to-do list this offseason, starting with addressing the catcher position and adding a middle-of-the-order run producer to the lineup. But they also need to shore up a bullpen that lacks a shutdown option from the left side, which makes the latest news out of Atlanta all the more interesting.

Veteran left-hander AJ Minter is back on the IL with a hip injury, seemingly the same issue that sidelined him for a month earlier this season. According to reports, the Braves are unsure if he'll return to the mound in 2024.

That's a big blow to Atlanta, who is clinging to the third wild card spot with several teams, including the Cubs, hot on their heels, but also for Minter, who will hit free agency this winter. Set to turn 31 next month, his lengthy track record as a quality late-inning arm will surely make him an attractive target for teams. That being said, a recurring hip injury could dampen his market and give teams like Chicago, who love to buy low, a chance to add him to the bullpen mix.

Left-hander AJ Minter has a track record teams will love in free agency

When he's been healthy, Minter has been as effective as ever, working to a 2.62 ERA across 34 1/3 innings of work this year. His strikeout numbers are down and the long ball has been an issue, but he's continued to deliver for manager Brian Snitker.

His lengthy postseason track record speaks for itself and he would be a very attractive addition for any team with October aspirations. He's made 20 appearances over the years with Atlanta, he's put up a 2.88 ERA, averaging 13 strikeouts per nine. That swing-and-miss stuff is huge with the season on the line and would fit well in the Chicago bullpen that ranks ninth in strikeouts this year.

The Cubs haven't had a shutdown lefty in the mix for some time now. If Minter's price dips due to injury concerns, expect Jed Hoyer to move quickly and look to add a proven arm to the mix, despite the injury risk.