Cubs News: Epstein on chances of signing closer Craig Kimbrel

by Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - May 22, 2019, 4:31 PM

The Chicago Cubs bullpen has been up and down throughout the 2019 season.

At times, they are shutdown performers, and at other times they have been a liability to several losses. Overall they have a 3.97 overall ERA which ranks fifth in the National League.

One thing that could eventual hinder the possibility of a very special season for Cubs nation is the lack of a true closer since the injury of Brandon Morrow.

Cubs President of Operations Theo Epstein was interviewed on 670 The Score on Wednesday and was asked about the possibility of signing a big-time closer like Craig Kimbrel who is still looking for his future team.

"There's not too many free agents out there," Epstein said. "I think trades are probably more likely than free agents, but you never know. Anyone who's still out there, you're obviously, if they can help you, you're engaged with them. It's just trying to find a way to make it work. Obviously, it's been well-documented that we weren't that active in free agency this winter. And there are a number of reasons for that, and those reasons still apply. But you don't want to look past any opportunities. It's just a matter of making it work. That said, typically June and July is the time where the trade market really comes into focus. But as you do that, you keep your mind on the talent out there that's available without having to give up prospects. Free agency, you'd love to find a way to make that work. It's not going to be easy."

Sounds like there is a chance that Epstein and Co. will make a few moves in the coming months.