Cubs’ Preparation Abroad
The team’s tour in Japan offers a chance to take stock ahead of key matchups. With the spotlight previously on an explosive offense during spring training, the focus now shifts to the starting pitching staff. The decision to rely on a rotation largely carried over from last season remains a calculated gamble. Only one new arm, right-hander Colin Rea, has emerged as a reliable fifth starter after a promising spring, while plans to add veteran Lance Lynn on a one-year deal are under active discussion. This approach leaves the rotation vulnerable if emerging talents do not deliver consistently.
Concerns Over Pitching Depth
The rotation struggles are evident in statistical rankings during spring training. The Cubs currently rank in the lower half with a batting average against of .264, an ERA near 5.73, and 36 home runs allowed. Conversely, the strikeout totals stand out, demonstrating a degree of potential. Despite the promising strikeout numbers, the overall depth remains a worry. Last season saw the use of nine different starting pitchers, and without firm replacements or breakout performances, similar pressure looms over the current staff.
Insights into Individual Performances
Veteran Shota Imanaga has started three games, pitching 11 innings with seven earned runs on nine hits, including multiple home runs. His performance reveals a concerning decline in velocity and pitch movement, with his four-seam fastball appearing less potent than expected. Similarly, Justin Steele’s efforts over 8.2 innings in three starts have resulted in a high ERA of 9.35. His reliance on a limited pitching arsenal is proving costly, underscoring the need for an uplift in his game.
Pitcher Boyd, who transitioned to a starting role under a new contract after several seasons in the bullpen, has had mixed results during spring training. After pitching eight innings and giving up seven earned runs on 10 hits, his recent outing showed more promise, delivering six innings with a controlled rate of three earned runs. In contrast, number four starter Taillon has consistently met expectations but has not broken into the realm of standout performances.
Colin Rea stands out as a dependable option at number five. He has managed six innings with just one earned run on three hits, though his role remains limited as he prepares for a likely call-up. Young pitcher Brown has also shown glimpses of potential; in three appearances (including two starts), he delivered six innings while giving up six earned runs. Beyond these established players, top pitching prospects in the organization are slated to participate in upcoming spring showcases, hinting at future depth enhancements should current performers not step up.
Looking Ahead
The current mix of established arms and emerging talents puts the onus on key starters like Imanaga and Steele to deliver under pressure. Any significant underperformance could place the rotation in a precarious position, revealing the risks inherent in the front office’s strategy. As the Cubs prepare to face a formidable opponent in a high-profile series, the effectiveness of this approach will be tested on a global stage, with every outing contributing to the rotation’s overall trajectory for the season.