Rotation Concerns
The Cubs boast a lineup featuring established power hitters, yet their starting pitching remains an area of vulnerability. While Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga offer promising options at the top of the rotation, the lower half relies on veterans such as Colin Rea and Matthew Boyd, both entering their 34th season. With other National League teams benefiting from deeper rotations, Chicago faces challenges, particularly if Javier Assad continues to struggle with oblique discomfort.
Potential Addition of Jordan Montgomery
Amid these concerns, there is an opportunity to strengthen the pitching staff by acquiring left-hander Jordan Montgomery. Although his recent season produced a 6.23 ERA and resulted in a shift to the bullpen, Montgomery has demonstrated consistency in previous years. Between 2021 and 2023, he maintained a 3.48 ERA and made at least 30 starts each season. His struggles this season can be partly attributed to signing later than usual and enduring a condensed spring training schedule.
Trade Scenario
Montgomery’s expiring contract and veteran status make him an attractive option for a team seeking to bolster the rotation without incurring substantial costs. The Cubs appear interested in bringing him in as a potential solution to add depth and experience to their pitching staff. In a prospective deal, Chicago might offer promising minor league talents such as Brandon Birdsell and Ben Cowles. Birdsell recently showcased an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio at Triple-A, while Cowles posted a solid batting average in Double-A before making his move to the Cubs system. This strategy could provide the Cubs with both a valuable veteran presence and the opportunity to advance high-potential prospects.
