As the Chicago Cubs continue to evaluate their starting rotation, multiple options remain on the free-agent market. Left-hander Jordan Montgomery would still fit perfectly into a Cubs rotation that looks to take the next step. But if the team decides that Montgomery is out of their price range, Michael Lorenzen could be a potential fallback option.
The right-hander is coming off a season in which he made his first All-Star appearance and pitched a no-hitter. Splitting time between the Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies, Lorenzen's numbers were up and down. Before the trade to Philadelphia, he logged a 3.58 ERA in 105.2 innings with the Tigers.
However, it was a different story upon joining the Phillies. Even after throwing a no-hitter, Lorenzen's 5.51 ERA in 47.1 innings for Philadelphia was less than ideal. But if there's any team that could help Lorenzen make some adjustments, it would certainly be the Cubs.
Earlier in Spring Training, the team reportedly had interest in the 32-year-old's services. It would make sense given the type of deal Lorenzen is expected to land.
He's currently seeking a two-year contract from interested suitors. Given Lorenzen's experience working out of the bullpen and starting, the Cubs seem like a tailor-made destination for a pitcher with such flexibility.
Yes, the Cubs have in-house candidates competing for the fifth rotation spot. But with several pitchers around the league already falling victim to injury, rotation depth is even more valuable this season. For a team with playoff aspirations, the Cubs should continue to monitor Lorenzen's market.
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