Chicago Cubs Roll Dice on Left-Handed Reliever
The Chicago Cubs still haven't signed Cody Bellinger, but at least they stayed busy on Monday, adding a pair of arms to bolster their pitching depth.
The first was right-handed pitcher Sam McWilliams, who signed a minor-league deal with the club. The second was lefty reliever Richard Lovelady, who signed with the team after his pro day.
Lovelady made a strong impression during his pro day bullpen, showing off a variety of pitches in his arsenal with good movement. He doesn't throw particularly hard, topping out in the low 90s, but his pitch mix and accuracy could be enough to get batters out consistently.
Lovelady, 28, is still looking to get his career back on track after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2021. He was in the midst of his best season that year before requiring surgery, going 2-0 with a 3.48 ERA, a 1.06 WHP and 23 strikeouts in 20 2/3 innings for the Kansas City Royals.
The Cubs are hoping he can recapture that promise with them after an underwhelming 2023 campaign with the Oakland Athletics. The veteran southpaw went 0-3 with a 4.63 ERA over 23 1/3 innings in his first season back from injury.
On the plus side, Lovelady posted some strong peripherals last year, including a 1.07 WHIP and a 9.3 K/9.
His main issue was that his walk rate ballooned to 3.9 BB/9, so he needs to get that under control if he wants to have a significant role with Chicago.
If he improves his command, Lovelady could end up being a solid pickup for the Cubs. Given the minimal cost to acquire him, it's worth a shot.
