For all of camp, the Chicago Cubs have been giving pitchers different looks to see exactly who will be the fifth starter in their rotation. Now, with recent news of Jameson Taillon's injury, the team might need to dig more into their current crop of pitchers.
After being scratched from his start on Saturday, Taillon's injury doesn't seem to have shown any improvement. A development that doesn't bode well for the start of the season.
Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, and Kyle Hendricks are currently the only guaranteed starters to open the season at this time. It will be interesting to see how the Cubs proceed in their plans for the remaining two spots in the rotation.
The Cubs certainly have capable options in the event that Taillon's absence extends into the regular season. Jordan Wicks, Javier Assad, and Hayden Wesneski figure to get some consideration for the starting rotation.
Michael Lorenzen could be of interest as it was recently reported he was holding out for a two-year contract. For a short commitment, one would have to think that the Cubs have reached out to his camp this offseason.
Jordan Montgomery is still another name to monitor as he sits and waits on the free agent market. The likelihood that the Cubs would sign the left-hander remains to be seen, but given the fit, it would make sense for the front office to at least inquire at this time.
It will be interesting to see how this situation plays out. If Taillon can come back in time for the start of the season, he will provide stability in the rotation.
If he is unable to, there are many routes in which the Cubs can pursue. Whether it be in-house or by adding in free agency, there is no shortage of options.
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