By Jordan Long
The Chicago Cubs weak link in the bullpen this season is the closer position. They were hoping Brandon Morrow’s injury woes were behind him to become the closer. If not Pedro Strop would step in. He had been the closer before.
That has not happened. Morrow hasn’t been in uniform all year because of an elbow injury. He is starting to throw from 90 feet and could be back in the lineup soon. The Cubs haven’t been able to trust Strop. He has 5 saves but has blown 2. His ERA is a disappointing 4.63. The Cubs needed to find a closer who would shut down teams in the 9th inning.
The Cubs might have the answer. They agreed to a 3-year, $43 million contract with Craig Kimbrel. Kimbrel had been a free agent since the Boston Red Sox won the World Series last year. He had been waiting for a new home and was the top reliever in free agency. The Cubs decided it was time to bring him in.
According to ESPN, Cubs’ pitcher Pedro Strop said, “He’s awesome. You’re bringing in — if he’s not the best, he’s one of the best closers in the game. Hopefully he’s in good shape so he can help us win another World Series. … He’s one of my favorites.”
The Cubs are going to be Kimbrel’s 4th team. He previously suited up for the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and San Diego Padres. In 9 seasons Kimbrel has an outstanding 333 saves and 34 blown saves. His career ERA is 1.91 with a record of 31-19.
In the postseason, Kimbrel appeared in 19 games. Last season was his best with 6 saves. Over the course of his career he managed 7 playoff saves but his ERA is a disappointing 3.92.
The Cubs know how important the closer role is. Kimbrel improves the position. On paper this gives Manager Joe Maddon an arm who should be able to close games. Kimbrel knows he will be called upon on the 9th inning. His history shows he will shut down opponents to win games for the Cubs. This should boost the Cubs chances of not only winning the National League Central Division but also making a deep run come October. 0000000000000
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