The Cubs are continuing their search for more pitching, as another arm has been linked to the North Siders, this time it’s Marlins closer Aj Ramos.
The #Cubs, #Rockies and #Nats all expressing strong interest in #Marlins closer AJ Ramos
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 24, 2017
Now, it’s worth noting that the Nationals are in desperate need of bullpen help, even after adding Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson from Oakland. But it feels like the Cubs are not going to look into every single option that may be available at the deadline – which are officially a week away from.
Ramos, who is coming off of three consecutive seasons with an ERA under 3.00 with at least 64 innings pitched, is having another solid season in Miami with a 3.86 ERA and a robust K/9 of 11.09. Ramos would be another excellent addition to a Cubs bullpen that is starting to raise some concerns outside of Wade Davis and Cj Edwards.
The 30-year-old Ramos is arbitration eligible after this season, giving the Cubs some flexibility after this season if they do decide to let their All-Star closer in Davis walk. However, that extra little bit of team control could end up costing the Cubs more, which may deter the front office from making this deal.
While names like the Orioles Zach Britton or the Padres Brad Hand may be sexier names, the Cubs continue to look for potential more affordable options in hopes of striking gold on a budget. Ramos would not be the big name that many Cubs fans are hoping for, but at $3.4 million this season with control through 2018, he is an attractive option that could come cheap with the massive fire sale the Marlins appear to be in the midst of.
