Nathan Eovaldi Fits the Cubs' Offseason Outlook

Photo&colon; Jerome Miron/Imagn Images

Nathan Eovaldi Fits the Cubs' Offseason Outlook

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Bobby Foster | Last updated Nov 26, 2024 12:21 PM ET

While it appears that the Chicago Cubs won't be playing in the deep end of the pool for pitching help this offseason, there still are plenty of quality additions the team can make to its starting rotation.

Nathan Eovaldi has been as solid as they come in his career. No stranger to the big stage, the veteran has been involved in some memorable postseason games. His experience is something the Cubs desperately need in their rotation, and they should target him this winter.

Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga comprise a strong duo at the top of Chicago's rotation. To balance things out, slotting Eovaldi between them would give Craig Counsell a nice flow to his starting rotation.

Jed Hoyer's track record indicates he's willing to pay a higher short-term salary instead of dishing out lengthy contracts. As was the case with last offseason's minimal commitment to Hector Neris, the Cubs want to create flexibility through their financial decisions.

Entering his age-35 season, Eovaldi likely won't command a lengthy deal. The Cubs could sign a former All-Star who's shown consistency at the highest levels. As a key contributor to two World Series teams, he could be the right fit to mentor the Cubs' pitching staff.

After Yusei Kikuchi signed with the Los Angeles Angels on Monday, the clock is ticking for the Cubs. They need to strike their targets soon because if they're left without a seat at the table, it'll be a massive failure by the front office.

By boxing themselves into the "mid-tier" market for pitching, the Cubs have no excuses for not adding to their rotation this winter.

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

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