The Chicago Cubs entered Monday with the third-best record in the National League, but their starting rotation could still use a boost.
The Cubs starters this season have a 3.88 ERA, which is not bad by any means. However, it may need to be better if the Cubs want to win the World Series. The team could look to bolster the group in free agency.
With many solid pitchers slated to hit the open market, Sports Illustrated’s Jackson Roberts predicted the Cubs would sign Jack Flaherty.
“Flaherty hasn’t had his best season, posting a 4.69 ERA through 29 starts,” wrote Roberts. “The strikeouts are still there, though, and with only $20 million on the table if he accepts his player option, it feels more likely that he’ll bank on the market valuing him enough to squeeze out a multi-year deal.”
Flaherty was a key player for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their championship run last year. He agreed to a two-year, $35 million deal with the Detroit Tigers but can test the market again this offseason.
Flaherty is projected to earn a three-year, $44 million deal in free agency. He may not be an overly expensive option for the Cubs, but he could be a great addition to a rotation that could feature Cade Horton, Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele. The Cubs don’t need him to be an ace, but he can be a solid arm for them.
He has postseason experience, which could be a major factor for the Cubs next season as they try to bring a World Series back to Chicago.