The Chicago Cubs have been prominently linked in MLB trade rumors this summer to multiple starting pitchers, including a few All-Stars. While adding a starter is still a top priority, Chicago is also making a strong push to improve its bullpen.
Bruce Levine of 670 The Score reported that the Cubs are “working hard” on strengthening their bullpen ahead of the MLB trade deadline. While multiple relievers are on the table, Chicago is reportedly very interested in Tampa Bay Rays closer Pete Fairbanks and Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Seranthony Dominguez.
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Pete Fairbanks stats (ESPN): 2.84 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, .196 batting average allowed, .552 OBP allowed, 32-15 K-BB in 38 innings pitched
Fairbanks, age 31, would be an outstanding addition to the Cubs’ bullpen. The Wisconsin native has been one of the best closers in the American League over the last three seasons. While he hasn’t received an All-Star selection, the righty has a 3.01 ERA with a 10.1 K/9 and a 2.77 K/BB ratio in his last 128.2 innings pitched.
However, acquiring him could prove difficult. The Athletic‘s Patrick Mooney, Katie Woo, and Will Sammon report that the Rays are “hearing out interested teams” on Fairbanks but “strongly prefer” to keep him past the MLB trade deadline.
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Seranthony Dominguez stats (ESPN): 3.32 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 53-24 K-BB, .211 batting average allowed, .641 OPS allowed in 40.2 innings pitched
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That’s where Domínguez could come into play. The 30-year-old righty had a rough May (7.15 ERA), but he’s been effective outside of that. In his first 11 appearances (10 innings), he posted a 2.70 ERA with 5 hits allowed. From May 19 through July 24, he had a 2.39 ERA with 19 hits allowed in 26.1 innings.
Domínguez would also be cheaper to acquire, as he’s a half-season rental who will become a free agent this winter. If Chicago determines Tampa Bay’s asking price is too high, Domínguez is a reasonable fallback plan to help the Cubs’ bullpen.
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