Alex Cobb could join the Cubs' clubhouse solely out of respect for Joe Maddon. (Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports)
Alex Cobb could join the Cubs' clubhouse solely out of respect for Joe Maddon. (Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports)

Report: Cubs have met with free agent pitcher


by - Senior Writer -

Less than one week after free agent pitcher Alex Cobb made it evident in a radio interview that he relished the idea of reuniting with former Tamp Bay Rays coaches Joe Maddon and Jim Hickey in Chicago, Patrick Mooney of NBC Sports Chicago reported that the two sides have already met.

Coming off of a promising 2017 slate, Cobb is likely looking for a fresh start, as the 30-year-old has never quite experienced the level of success with the Tampa Bay Rays that was expected of him after getting off to a hot start to his Major League career in 2011.

Having suffered from elbow issues in recent years, including having to undergo Tommy John surgery in 2015, Cobb took a while to return to top form. Not helping matters was his presence on a rebuilding Tampa Bay team. Therefore, a move to a playoff contender such as the Cubs could be beneficial for both sides.

Recently quoted as saying, "I don't hide the fact that I have the most respect for Joe Maddon and what he did for me coming up as a player, not so much as a pitcher on the mound but as a professional athlete and professional baseball player," Cobb could be compelled to ink with the Cubs based on his desire to reunite with Maddon alone. And the Cubs, who will be aiming to shore up their rotation this offseason, would certainly welcome that.

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