The Chicago Cubs are reportedly close to signing free agent right-hander Lance Lynn to a one-year contract, according to a report from USA Today on Thursday. This move could be a significant boost to the Cubs' pitching rotation, which has been an area of concern for the team in recent years.
Lance Lynn, a veteran right-hander, has been one of the most consistent pitchers in the major leagues over the past decade. With a career record of 115-77 and an ERA of 3.57, Lynn has established himself as a top-tier starter. His ability to eat innings and produce quality starts makes him an attractive addition to any rotation.
The Cubs, who have been relatively quiet in the free agent market this offseason, are looking to make a splash with the signing of Lynn. The team has been focused on rebuilding its rotation, which was decimated by injuries and underperformance last season. The addition of Lynn would provide a much-needed stabilizing presence and give the Cubs a legitimate chance to compete in the highly competitive National League Central.
While the terms of the deal are not yet disclosed, it is believed that the Cubs are offering Lynn a one-year contract worth around $10-12 million. This would be a significant investment for the team, but one that could pay off in a big way if Lynn can return to his pre-2022 form.
Lynn's potential impact on the Cubs' rotation cannot be overstated. With a deep arsenal of pitches, including a fastball, curveball, and cutter, Lynn has the ability to dominate hitters and rack up strikeouts. He is also an innings-eater, having thrown over 180 innings in five of the last seven seasons.
However, there are also some concerns about Lynn's longevity and ability to perform at a high level. At 36 years old, Lynn is nearing the end of his career, and some scouts have questioned whether he has enough left in the tank to be an effective starter. Additionally, Lynn's 2022 season was marked by inconsistency and a decline in velocity, which could be a red flag for the Cubs.
Despite these concerns, the Cubs are clearly willing to take a chance on Lynn, and for good reason. With a strong spring training and a little bit of luck, Lynn could be a major factor in the Cubs' quest for a playoff spot. And even if he doesn't quite live up to expectations, the one-year deal would allow the Cubs to cut bait and move on without being saddled with a long-term commitment.
Overall, the potential signing of Lance Lynn is a fascinating development in the Cubs' offseason saga. While there are certainly some risks involved, the potential reward is well worth it. If Lynn can return to form and provide the Cubs with a reliable starter, it could be the catalyst for a surprise playoff run. And even if it doesn't work out, the Cubs will have at least taken a chance on a proven veteran, which is more than can be said for some of their competitors in the NL Central.