Craig Kimbrel to Get First Cubs Game Action With Triple-A Affiliate
By Michael Luciano
After waiting until June before signing a long-term contract, All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel finally agreed to a three-year deal with the Chicago Cubs.
In order to help Kimbrel shake off some of the rust, the Cubs are sending him to their Triple-A team in Iowa so he can regain control of his 100 MPH heater and 87 MPH, knee-breaking knuckle curveball.
Craig Kimbrel To Join Cubs' Triple-A Affiliate https://t.co/pOXqd2DeSD pic.twitter.com/TCNTK43Nkg
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) June 16, 2019
A seven-time All-Star with more career saves (333) than hits allowed (285), Kimbrel and Atlanta Braves starter Dallas Keuchel remained unsigned until June, when whomever signed them could no longer lose a first round pick.
That wait was the very definition of egregious, as Kimbrel has been the best reliever in baseball for the last decade. For a Cubs team who badly needed bullpen stability, his presence in a few weeks time will be much needed.
The #Cubs and RHP Craig Kimbrel have agreed to terms on a three-year contract. The deal, which covers the 2019-2021 seasons, also includes a vesting/club option for 2022. Kimbrel will be optioned to @IowaCubs.
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) June 7, 2019
RHP Allen Webster was transferred to the 60-day IL. pic.twitter.com/KynGCxSVJg
The Cubs, locked in a battle with Milwaukee for first place in the NL Central, can give Kimbrel the luxury of reclaiming his electric stuff before coming back up to the big league club.