Report: Cubs in talks with former All-Star pitcher |
The Cubs have made a few bold moves this offseason with the acquisition of elite closer Wade Davis, Caleb Smith, and reported signing of Koji Uehara.
However, it appears that management is not done trying to restock the cupboard with talented pitching for the Cubs. The World Series champions are still in talks with free agent righty Tyson Ross as MLB insider Patrick Mooney reported recently that the Cubs "left this week's winter meetings in Maryland still involved in the Ross talks." Other teams that have reported interest include the Padres, Pirates, and Rangers. With the rarity of quality starting pitchers available in free agency, Ross will probably get an offer by teams for around $10 million a season. Ross missed the entire 2016 season besides one start (Opening Day) with thoracic outlet syndrome and had surgery in October. He made an All-Star appearance in 2014 with a 13-14 record with 2.81 ERA with 184 strikeouts in 195.2 innings. For his career, he is 32-53 with 3.64 ERA with 633 strikeouts and 1.32 WHIP. The 29-year old starter has four pitches at his disposal including a four-seam fastball, two-seamer, a slider, and a changeup. He was drafted by the Oakland A's in the 2nd round (58th overall) in the 2008 MLB draft.
