After a little bit of a rough stretch in the second half of the year, the Philadelphia Phillies bullpen has returned to their dominant form where they are shutting out opposing teams whenever they are called upon.
The Chicago Cubs knew they had to address their bullpen during the offseason after that unit blew countless games coming down the stretch that cost them a spot in the playoffs.
The Chicago Cubs sent Michael Rucker to the Philadelphia Phillies for cash considerations in a trade on Tuesday. It is not a big move, but the Cubs had no use for Michael Rucker on the roster anymore. Their bullpen was full, and he had some struggles in recent seasons.
Entering the offseason, the Chicago Cubs had a clear need in their bullpen after it faltered late last year. Lack of depth caused by injuries forced the coaching staff to overuse the available players and they eventually ran out of gas.
There was a little procedural action on Thursday, see press release for details. The Chicago Cubs today have agreed to terms with right-handed pitcher Héctor Neris on a one-year major league contract with a club option for 2025.