May 29, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers relief pitcher Jesus Tinoco (59) delivers a pitch to the Arizona Diamondbacks during the seventh inning at Globe Life Field. Photo: Jim Cowsert/USA TODAY Sports

Cubs Acquire Reliever Jesus Tinoco from Royals

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Bobby Foster | Last updated Jul 18, 2024 10:43 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs made a trade with the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday, acquiring pitcher Jesus Tinoco in exchange for cash considerations, per Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times.

While the Cubs' overall trade deadline strategy remains unclear, it appears the team is maintaining the status quo with their bargain-bin shopping for now. Tinoco is an intriguing option for a team searching for help in all facets.

The right-hander's 8.10 ERA isn't inspiring, but the Cubs obviously think that they can fix something in his repertoire. It isn't the first time and it certainly won't be the last for a Cubs pitching lab that has a track record of reviving arms.

Tinoco has bounced around since his MLB debut in 2019 with the Colorado Rockies. He's tossed 76.2 big-league innings with the Marlins, Colorado Rockies, and Texas Rangers and even spent time with the Saitama Seibu Lions in Japan.

After a stint with the Rangers earlier this season, Tinoco signed a minor-league deal with the Royals in June. Now coming to Chicago in exchange for cash considerations, the Cubs are once again getting a low-risk, high-reward type of player.

If the North Siders can turn Tinoco around, it'll help the bullpen tremendously. Stability among relievers is crucial if this team thinks it can compete for a playoff spot. On the other hand, it may give the Cubs another option in case a sell-off is in the future.

What's On Tap Next?

The Cubs' bullpen will be fully rested to start the second half of the season. When MLB action resumes Friday, the North Siders have a chance to build on the success they enjoyed in the week leading up to the All-Star break.

However, if the struggles that plagued them for much of the season's first half reemerge, it may be a long home stretch for a team that's endured several self-inflicted wounds.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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