Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Cubs struggling with starting pitching compared to 2016?
The Cubs starting rotation has a 3.92 ERA through 44 games in 2017, compared to a 2.70 ERA through 43 games in 2016. This decline in starting pitching performance is a big reason the Cubs aren't dominating like they did during their championship season.
How many years of control do the Cubs have left on Chris Archer if they trade for him?
Chris Archer will turn 29 in fall 2017 and has four more years of control remaining. He would provide both immediate help and long-term value for the Cubs rotation going forward.
What would it cost the Cubs to trade for Chris Archer from Tampa Bay?
The Rays would likely want a current major league talent like Javy Baez or Kyle Schwarber plus some combination of the Cubs' top prospects. This hefty price tag makes an Archer trade seem unlikely given Theo Epstein's reservations about depleting the farm system.
Why might the Pirates consider trading Gerrit Cole despite him being their ace?
The Pirates are in last place in the NL Central with multiple key players out, including Starling Marte's 80-game suspension and Jameson Taillon recovering from cancer. However, they still have reservations about trading Cole, especially to division rival Chicago.
What is Jake Odorizzi's track record as a starter for the Rays?
Since becoming a full-time starter, Odorizzi has averaged 10 wins per season with 163 strikeouts and a 3.72 ERA over three years. The 27-year-old Illinois native has two more years of control and would cost significantly less than Chris Archer.