Can Chicago Cubs Top Prospect Help Solve Bullpen Disaster?
In this story:
The Chicago Cubs have found themselves in a bullpen mess. The Cubs boast the seventh-worst bullpen in MLB with a 4.46 ERA.
That blame can lay at the feet of multiple players, Michael Fulmer, Brad Boxberger, Julian Merryweather, you pick. There hasn't been many bright spots and a team cannot contend without a competent bullpen.
Chicago is quickly discovering this fact the hard way.
But could a solution soon be on its way?
The Cubs have right-hander Ben Brown waiting in the wings.
In Double-A this season Brown posted a 0.45 ERA and 0.95 WHIP over 20.0 innings. Then he was promoted to Triple-A and has continued to showcase his skills.
Brown was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies out of high school in 2017, underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019, then was trade to Chicago last season at the deadline that sent David Robertson back to Philadelphia.
Now he's hungry and appears ready to contribute at the Major League level this season.
Brown has always been seen as a starting pitching prospect, but with the Cubs' rotation solidified and Kyle Hendricks closing in on a return, there is no room for Brown.
But he could make a huge difference in the bullpen with his power fastball, curveball and a very good slider. His strikeout potential is stuff of legend and the hype is exactly something this Chicago squad needs on the roster in general, not just in the bullpen.
If he's ready, it's time for Brown to be given the chance to make a difference.
More From SI's Inide The Cubs
- Could Mike Trout Request a Trade to the Chicago Cubs?
- Did David Robertson Net the Cubs a Future Star in Ben Brown?
- Hoerner is the Cubs Shortstop of the Future
- Cubs Could Give Canario a Shot in September
- Could the Cubs Land Trea Turner in the Offseason?
- Chicago Cubs Have a New Top Prospect in Their Rankings
- Is This Top Cubs Prospect Destined for the Mound at Wrigley?
- Steele Offers Glimpse Into Future of Cubs Rotation
- Do the Chicago Cubs Have the National League's Best Bullpen?
- Can Christopher Morel be a Long-Term Solution in Center Field
