header-emailNEWSLETTER
BN Chicago Cubs Avoiding Bad Decisions in the....

Avoiding Bad Decisions in the Spring, Leiter and the Bullpen, Cease Talks, and Other Cubs Bullets

Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
Mar 13, 2024
Chicago Cubs

Trying to get back into meditation. It really, really works for me. But I have so much trouble finding the exact right time of day to do it, and then sticking to it consistently.

  • Something I have to remind myself every year: Spring Training performances are rarely useful for evaluation purposes. As a true tiebreaker? As something at the very edge of edge cases? As a proxy for health? Sure, OK, all fine. But you get yourself into serious trouble if you look at a set of very small-sample stats, from games that don’t matter, against players who may or may not be big leaguers, and players who may or may not be working on things where they do not care at all what their or their opponents outcomes are.

  • A reminder to that end from Cubs President Jed Hoyer, via The Athletic: “This is the worst place to try and evaluate. No one’s trying to get anyone out with any kind of scouting report. If a guy has a huge weakness, no one’s actually hitting it in spring training. Hitters are working on stuff, pitchers are working on stuff, playing every other day, getting three at-bats. More and more, I have this laundry list of awful decision-making in spring training based on who looked really good and who looked awful.”

  • If Mark Leiter Jr. hadn’t lost his splitter late last year, I would be so freaking excited about having him back in the bullpen this year for the Cubs. He was a STUD until that happened. And wouldn’t you know it, the splitter has shown up again this spring, and he’s been outstanding (not that I’m judging him on the numbers of course …). But because we saw that he COULD lose it, and we saw how ineffective he was without that in the bag, I get nervous. If it’s back and stays back, though, he’s going to be really, really good once again this year.

  • It’s more or less ALWAYS true with relievers, but the group the Cubs have right now could be truly outstanding … if this and if that. With Leiter it’s the splitter. With Merryweather it’s the health. With Alzolay it’s the success against lefties. With Neris it’s hoping there’s no fall-off yet. With Almonte it’s the bounce back. With Cuas it’s the sweeper. With Little and Palencia it’s the readiness. Several interesting NRIs. So on and so forth. Tons of guys who could be very good, tons of flexibility to move guys around, and a relatively large amount of redundancy. It’s not at all hard for me to imagine this turning into another top-ten bullpen. But the variance inherent in the role leaves you without certainty. Most likely some of the guys are great, some of the guys struggle, and some of the guys get hurt. That’d be the fat part of the bell curve of outcomes.

  • Oh, speaking of splitters, I want to dig into this more (I said the splitter was going to be this year’s sweeper!), but for now I’ll just share because it’s such a great read:

  • When you find out someone in the epic 1998 Home Run Race is decked out in Cubs gear at Cubs Spring Training and is not that one guy, but is instead that other guy:

  • (If you’re wondering, McGwire has been around Cubs minor league camp because his son, Mason, is a Cubs pitching prospect. Good to have his presence and feedback available, regardless of the feelings it conjures about Sammy Sosa’s continued absence.)

  • Only way to reverse this trend (if you even wanted to) is to somehow incentivize keeping starting pitchers in longer – some kind of value that is worth as much as the third time through the order penalty (like, say, the DOUBLE HOOK RULE):

  • Stay tuned on those renewed Dylan Cease trade talks. With the report of the Yankees making a new offer, and now also a report that the Rangers might be trying to land him (and also maybe the Padres), it could be that the White Sox have decided they don’t want to risk waiting until the trade deadline to move Cease. If that’s the case, it may happen quickly, and the potential impact for the remaining free agent starting pitchers could be significant.

    • Read More

    written by

    Brett Taylor

    Brett Taylor is the Lead Cubs Writer at Bleacher Nation, and you can find him on Twitter at @BleacherNation and on LinkedIn here. Brett is also the founder of Bleacher Nation, which opened up shop in 2008 as an independent blog about the Chicago Cubs. Later growing to incorporate coverage of other Chicago sports, Bleacher Nation is now one of the largest regional sports blogs on the web.

    more cubs news

    Chicago Cubs

    REPORT: Cubs to Call Up Infield Prospect Luis Vazquez

    A surprising report tonight ahead of tomorrow's off-day for the Chicago Cubs. Another infielder is coming up, and he'd be making his big league debut in the process. It's defensive stud Luis Vazquez, a guy whom many had been calling...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 19, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    Enhanced Box Score: Pirates 3, Cubs 2 – May 19, 2024

    The brutal, brutal run for the Chicago Cubs' offense continued today. It's really hard to win that way, and even harder to watch. Jameson Taillon was a touch better than his line today, without a lot of defensive help behind...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 19, 2024
    Cubs Lineup
    Chicago Cubs

    Pre-Gamin’: Pirates at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    CUBS LINEUP — Well, the good news is that the Cubs have an off-day tomorrow and Dansby Swanson is targeting a Tuesday return from the IL. So no matter what, this SHOULD be the last day the Cubs middle infield...

    Michael Cerami Michael Cerami
    May 19, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    Enjoying the Actual Walk-Off, Morel History, Leiter and Neris, Holy Brennen Davis, and Other Cubs Bullets

    Despite everything, the Cubs are still three games up for the second Wild Card spot at the moment (and two games back in the NL Central). That's not a going-forward projection, it's just some context. The drama around the call...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 19, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    The Pirates Can Be As Mad As They Like, But That Call Was Correct

    If I were a catcher and wanted to record an out, I would simply not drop the ball. It's a jokey line, sure, but it's also correct in relation to yesterday's controversial conclusion. I think after seeing the replays of...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 19, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    Wake Up and Watch Shota Imanaga Dominate and the Cubs Walk It Off

    The Cubs pulled out a win in the bottom of the 9th yesterday, when Christopher Morel drove in Cody Bellinger to walk it off. The Pirates were undoubtedly displeased about the controversial ending, as it looked like Bellinger had been...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 19, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    The Cubs Walk It Off on a Weird Play at the Plate!

    Whew. That game was kinda dumb, but I tell you, the ending sure was fun. And also weird! So, to set the stage, the Pirates and Cubs' offenses could do nothing all day long. The game was still 0-0 in...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 18, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    Brennen Davis FREAKING DID IT AGAIN! AND THEN HE DID IT AGAIN AFTER THAT!

    This guy. What do I even say? I was already kinda buzzy when Brennen Davis homered again - a grand slam - for the fifth time in six games, and sixth time in eight games. THAT IS RIDICULOUS. https://twitter.com/IowaCubs/status/1791967453888598441 Truly...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 18, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    Enhanced Box Score: Cubs 1, Pirates 0 – May 18, 2024

    What matters most is that the Cubs won the game. And it was a fun ending, too. So I'm happy. But I also do feel a little frustrated - or concerned might be the better word - as I'm sure...

    Brett Taylor Brett Taylor
    May 18, 2024
    Chicago Cubs

    Pre-Gamin’: Pirates at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    CUBS LINEUP — Losing to the Braves (and then Jared Jones and Paul Skenes), when you have 10 people on the IL, including your entire middle infield, is not really that concerning to me. It sucks and banking losses is...

    Michael Cerami Michael Cerami
    May 18, 2024
    More Posts

    Latest News

    Picks

    Guardians vs. Mets Probable Starting Pitchers – May 20

    The Cleveland Guardians (30-17) and the New York Mets (21-25) face off at Progressive Field on Monday at 6:10 PM ET, beginning a three-game series.This contest's pitching matchup is set, as the Guardians will send Ben Lively (2-2) to the...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    Blue Jays vs. White Sox Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Monday, May 20, 2024

    The Chicago White Sox (14-33) hope to avoid their fourth straight defeat when they visit the Toronto Blue Jays (20-25) Monday at 3:07 PM ET on NBCS-CHI. The Blue Jays are listed as -204 favorites, while the White Sox are...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    NHL Playoffs Anytime Goalscorer Bets and Odds Today – May 20

    The NHL has only one Stanley Cup Playoffs Second Round game on its Monday slate -- continue reading for anytime goal-scorer odds for each squad.Watch the NHL on Fubo!Today's Top Anytime Goal OddsZach Hyman (Oilers) -125 to scoreOilers vs. CanucksGame...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    Best MLB Prop Bets Today, May 20, 2024

    In one of the 12 exciting matchups on the MLB schedule today, the Seattle Mariners and the New York Yankees take the field at Yankee Stadium.Keep reading and you'll find MLB player prop bets for each and every contest on...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    Blue Jays vs. White Sox Probable Starting Pitchers – May 20

    The Chicago White Sox (14-33) carry a three-game losing streak into a road contest against the Toronto Blue Jays (20-25) at 3:07 PM ET on Monday.The Blue Jays will look to Jose Berrios (4-3) against the White Sox and Erick...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    Braves vs. Padres Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Monday, May 20, 2024

    Marcell Ozuna, batting .323 this season, leads the Atlanta Braves (26-16) into a matchup with one of the league's other top hitters, Jurickson Profar (.335 AVG) and the San Diego Padres (24-24). Ozuna and the Braves are -125 favorites on...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    Braves vs. Padres Probable Starting Pitchers – May 20

    The Atlanta Braves (26-16) look to end to a three-game skid as they host the San Diego Padres (24-24) on Monday at 12:20 PM ET.This contest's pitching matchup is set, as the Braves will send Reynaldo Lopez (2-1) to the...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    How to Watch

    New York Liberty vs. Seattle Storm: Start Time, Streaming Live, TV Channel, How to Watch

    The New York Liberty (3-0) will attempt to build on a three-game win streak when they host the Seattle Storm (1-2) on Monday, May 20, 2024 at Barclays Center. The game airs at 7:00 PM ET on ESPN3, WWOR, FOX13,...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    How to Watch

    Connecticut Sun vs. Indiana Fever: Start Time, Streaming Live, TV Channel, How to Watch

    The Indiana Fever (0-3) will try to stop a three-game losing streak when they host the Connecticut Sun (2-0) at 7:00 PM ET on Monday, May 20, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The game airs on ESPN.Watch the WNBA all season...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    Picks

    Liberty vs Storm Prediction: Picks, Live Odds & Moneyline – May 20

    The New York Liberty (3-0) aim to extend a three-game win streak when they host the Seattle Storm (1-2) at 7:00 PM ET on Monday, May 20, 2024 at Barclays Center. The contest airs on ESPN3, WWOR, FOX13, and Prime...

    Data Skrive Data Skrive
    May 20, 2024
    More Posts

    more cubs news

    REPORT: Cubs to Call Up Infield Prospect Luis Vazquez

    Enhanced Box Score: Pirates 3, Cubs 2 – May 19, 2024

    Cubs Lineup

    Pre-Gamin’: Pirates at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    Enjoying the Actual Walk-Off, Morel History, Leiter and Neris, Holy Brennen Davis, and Other Cubs Bullets

    The Pirates Can Be As Mad As They Like, But That Call Was Correct

    Wake Up and Watch Shota Imanaga Dominate and the Cubs Walk It Off

    Brennen Davis FREAKING DID IT AGAIN! AND THEN HE DID IT AGAIN AFTER THAT!

    Enhanced Box Score: Cubs 1, Pirates 0 – May 18, 2024

    The Cubs Walk It Off on a Weird Play at the Plate!

    Pre-Gamin’: Pirates at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    More Posts

    Most Popular

    Most Popular

    The Pirates Can Be As Mad As They Like, But That Call Was Correct

    REPORT: Cubs to Call Up Infield Prospect Luis Vazquez

    Enjoying the Actual Walk-Off, Morel History, Leiter and Neris, Holy Brennen Davis, and Other Cubs Bullets

    Pre-Gamin’: Pirates at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    Enhanced Box Score: Pirates 3, Cubs 2 – May 19, 2024

    Butts in Seats, Game 7, Selke to Barkov, Brind’Amour, Sullivan, DeBoer, and other Blackhawks Bullets

    Wake Up and Watch Shota Imanaga Dominate and the Cubs Walk It Off

    Derrick Jones Jr. Bet on Himself, Julian Phillips’ Upside, Sky Get a Win, and Other Bulls Bullets

    Latest News

    Guardians vs. Mets Probable Starting Pitchers – May 20

    Blue Jays vs. White Sox Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Monday, May 20, 2024

    NHL Playoffs Anytime Goalscorer Bets and Odds Today – May 20

    Best MLB Prop Bets Today, May 20, 2024

    Blue Jays vs. White Sox Probable Starting Pitchers – May 20

    Braves vs. Padres Prediction: Expert Picks, Odds, Stats & Best Bets – Monday, May 20, 2024

    Braves vs. Padres Probable Starting Pitchers – May 20

    New York Liberty vs. Seattle Storm: Start Time, Streaming Live, TV Channel, How to Watch

    Connecticut Sun vs. Indiana Fever: Start Time, Streaming Live, TV Channel, How to Watch

    Liberty vs Storm Prediction: Picks, Live Odds & Moneyline – May 20

    Sun vs Fever Prediction: Picks, Live Odds & Moneyline – May 20

    Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks: Start Time, Streaming Live, TV Channel, How to Watch

    St. Louis Cardinals vs. Baltimore Orioles Series May 20-22: Odds, Starting Pitchers & Predictions

    Houston Astros vs. Los Angeles Angels Series May 20-22: Odds, Starting Pitchers & Predictions

    Kansas City Royals vs. Detroit Tigers Series May 20-22: Odds, Starting Pitchers & Predictions

    More Posts

    Most Popular

    Most Popular

    The Pirates Can Be As Mad As They Like, But That Call Was Correct

    REPORT: Cubs to Call Up Infield Prospect Luis Vazquez

    Enjoying the Actual Walk-Off, Morel History, Leiter and Neris, Holy Brennen Davis, and Other Cubs Bullets

    Pre-Gamin’: Pirates at Cubs (1:20 CT) – Lineups, Broadcast Info, Game Thread

    Enhanced Box Score: Pirates 3, Cubs 2 – May 19, 2024

    Butts in Seats, Game 7, Selke to Barkov, Brind’Amour, Sullivan, DeBoer, and other Blackhawks Bullets

    Wake Up and Watch Shota Imanaga Dominate and the Cubs Walk It Off

    Derrick Jones Jr. Bet on Himself, Julian Phillips’ Upside, Sky Get a Win, and Other Bulls Bullets

    21 Play Responsibly
    Gamble Aware West Virginia
    Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.