Steer clear of detrimental Chicago Cubs exchanges prior to the 2025 cutoff date.
Chicago Cubs' Closer Dilemma: To Kenley Jansen or Not to Kenley Jansen?
The Chicago Cubs find themselves with a dilemma as they approach the trade deadline. With an impressive 40-26 record, they sit pretty atop the National League Central division, but their less-than-stellar relief pitching could be a deal-breaker. The pressure is on general manager Jed Hoyer to make smart moves.
With names like Felix Bautista, Kyle Finnegan, and the legendary Kenley Jansen on the market, fans are eagerly anticipating moves. However, the Cubs have only recorded 15 saves so far this season, one of the worst totals in MLB. Craig Counsell's closer role has been a revolving door, prompting concern among fans.
One might think that Counsell's fiery management style is working wonders, but concerns about playoff-inexperienced relievers linger. The Cubs have the assets to make a deep playoff run, but they're missing one essential piece: a reliable, experienced closer.
But should Hoyer be gambling on an aging veteran like Kenley Jansen?
The Pros and Cons of Kenley Jansen
Jansen, with 461 career saves, is a close-game sensation. He's fourth all-time among relievers in saves, but with his 37 years and a concerning ERA of 4.57 this season, he's not without his risks. Trading for Jansen means taking on a significant amount of risk, especially considering his age and the jump in difficulty he'd face in the NL Central.
Better Alternatives for Chicago
If the Cubs decide to pass on Jansen, they've got plenty of other options. Kyle Finnegan and Felix Bautista top the list of relievers available from teams struggling to stay in contention. Both are in their primes and have over 10 saves each this season. Finnegan, with 18 saves and a 2.38 ERA, is an attractive choice, especially considering the Cubs brought him in on a one-year deal.
The Cubs' bullpen needs are clear, but the moves Hoyer makes could determine their second half success. Their star outfielders, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker, are MVP contenders. Shota Imanaga is dominating on the mound. But a capable closer could be the missing piece they need to return to the World Series and lift the trophy in October.
But who should they target? Avoiding Kenley Jansen might be wise, but other options exist. Boston's Matt Barnes, Washington's Kyle Finnegan, and Toronto's Tyler Chatwood could all be viable alternatives. It's up to Hoyer to make the call that could seal their fate come playoff time.
Enrichment Data:
The Risks of Kenley Jansen
Jansen's age and current performance trends make him a risky acquisition:
- Aging Relievers: At 37 years old, Jansen's advanced age increases the risk of performance decline.
- Performance Issues: In 2025, Jansen's ERA has climbed to 4.57, with a high number of hits and home runs.
- Contract and Salary: Acquiring Jansen might also bring a large salary, straining the Cubs' budget.
Other Relief Pitchers to Consider
If the Cubs opt for younger, more consistent relievers, they might find success with options like Pete Fairbanks or Tyler Rogers. Their availability and performance make them attractive alternatives to Jansen.
[1]: Trading for aging relievers can be risky due to the increased likelihood of performance decline and high salaries.
[2]: Pete Fairbanks offers a younger, potentially more stable option for teams seeking to bolster their bullpens.
[3]: Tyler Rogers has been consistent and could provide depth to the Cubs' bullpen with less risk.
[4]: Ryan Helsley could be a strong reliever for the Cubs, but his own performance issues might make him less appealing.
1: The rumors of acquiring Kenley Jansen, a 461-save veteran, have sparked excitement amongst Chicago Cubs fans, yet the risks associated with his age (37) and current performance (4.57 ERA) are concerning.
2: As the Cubs ponder trading for Jansen, other relief pitchers like Kyle Finnegan and Felix Bautista, both in their primes and excelling this season, could potentially offer a more stable and less risky solution to their closer dilemma in sports, specifically baseball and the MLB.
