The Chicago Cubs are having issues with their bullpen to start the 2025 MLB season, which feels like the same song and dance from last year.
Heading into Monday night’s matchup against the Athletics, Chicago’s bullpen numbers were, um, rough, to say the least, with both Eli Morgan and Nate Pearson holding ERAs in the double digits and three other relievers laying claim to ERAs of 9.00.
Obviously, it’s still very early in the campaign, and things are subject to change. But Cubs fans are already fuming with the results, and you can’t blame them considering the team had the opportunity to sign Tanner Scott in free agency, only to watch him sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Skimping on payroll is nothing new for Chicago, which has frequently held out on signing big-name free agents in recent years. There was a time when the Cubs actually did spend big bucks, but that feels like ages ago. Yes, they traded for Kyle Tucker, but he may very well walk in free agency next winter.
Chicago actually had a legitimate chance to win the NL Central with the right moves. It still does considering how it’s only the first week of the season and a whole lot can happen between now and October, but the Cubs would have had a much better shot had they shored up their bullpen more effectively.
Ryan Pressly would have been a good signing three years ago. Ryan Brasier has been maddeningly inconsistent throughout his career. Brad Keller has a lifetime 4.35 ERA.
Chicago added some pieces, but none of them look all that impressive. The Cubs would have rectified the issue much easier by just paying for Scott, who has been one of the best closers in baseball the last couple of years. Instead, they chose to go the cheaper route…again.
Luckily, Chicago plays in a pretty poor division. No one is going to run away with this thing. But the Cubs’ early returns aren’t looking great due to the same troubles that plagued them a year ago, and fans are already sick of it.
