The Chicago Cubs currently have a need to add a left-handed reliever to their roster. Recently, MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal linked them to one, but with the caveat being that he is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Interestingly, this pitcher was formerly drafted by the Cubs and made his MLB debut with them in 2012.
Who are the Chicago Cubs current left-handed options?
This off-season, the Cubs lost left-handed pitcher Drew Smyly as he became a free agent. Afterwards, they added Rob Zastryzny via a waiver claim and signed Caleb Thielbar to a one year deal. Luke Little is set to return in 2025, along with starting pitchers Jordan Wicks, Shota Imanaga, and Justin Steele. Newcomer Matthew Boyd also will figure into the starting rotation.
The Chicago Cubs have checked in on a former 2009 draft pick
In 2009, the Cubs selected Brooks Raley in the sixth round of the draft. He made his MLB debut in 2012, but by 2014 he found himself playing overseas in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO). After spending the 2014-2019 seasons in the KBO, Raley returned to MLB in 2020 where he has since spent time in the big leagues with the Cincinnati Reds, Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, and New York Mets.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs have checked in on Brooks Raley. He underwent Tommy John surgery in May of last year, but the 36 year old expects to be ready to return by July. Aside from the Cubs, the New York Yankees were listed as a team that has shown interest.
Could Brooks Raley get a two year contract this off-season?
Interestingly, Ken Rosenthal explored the idea of Brooks Raley securing a two year contract this off-season. Signing him now would effectively give the acquiring team a pre-deadline addition of sorts, but then have additional flexibility with him down the road, whether that be retaining him or flipping him if needed.
It will be interesting to see how the Brooks Raley market plays out. Before getting injured last year, he had recorded back to back seasons of ERA’s ranging from 2.68-2.80 and he’s been one of the better left-handed relievers since coming back to the United States in 2020.
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