What the Chicago Cubs rotation could look like after adding Shota Imanaga

4. Kyle Hendricks

I still have faith that Kyle Hendricks will be a valuable member of the rotation. After suffering a capsular tear in July of 2022, there weren't many people expecting him to go back to his trademark style. There were certainly bad outings, but Hendricks also turned in 12 quality starts out of the 24 games he took the mound. There was a solid chance that every time he went out there, Hendricks gave the chance to win the ball game.

And that's honestly all you can ask for from a guy who just turned 34 years old. Unfortunately, Hendricks' best years are likely behind him but he can still provide value. The Cubs were confident enough to exercise his club option, which will give Hendricks a $16.5 million paycheck this year. He has never relied on velocity throughout his career, so if he can hold onto his signature command, being the number four or five starter is a realistic expectation for him in my opinion.