Cubs Have Reportedly Inquired About Availability of Blue Jays Closer Ken Giles

Despite their recent stretch of success, the Cubs aren't without their weaknesses. The bullpen in particular has been a problem, but it appears as though they're trying to address the issue.

According to Blue Jays broadcaster Buck Martinez, the Chicago Cubs have inquired about the availability of Toronto Blue Jays closer Ken Giles.

Giles found himself out of Houston following a collapse that saw him literally punch his own face and then get demoted to Triple-A after an altercation with AJ Hinch. He was traded to Toronto as part of the Roberto Osuna swap.

The 28-year-old seems to have rounded back into form since joining the Jays. He has a 1.47 ERA and nine saves in 19 appearances for Toronto this year, logging a 38.9% strikeout percentage in the process.

Giles has one more year of arbitration left before he hits free agency so the Cubs could acquire him and keep him on board for the 2020 campaign, should they be willing to pay his price tag in arbitration.

Part of the reason for Giles' massive turnaround is an increased usage of his slider. He's using it almost as often as his fastball, and opponents are hitting a paltry .143 against it with a .200 slugging percentage.

The Cubs, who lack true consistency in the back end of the bullpen, could certainly use Giles' services. They rank 22nd in fWAR (0.2) with a mediocre 4.04 ERA.

Adding Giles would take pressure off of other relievers in the bullpen such as the injured Pedro Strop, and Steve Cishek, as well as Brandon Morrow who has yet to feature this season due to injury.

At this point, it's safe to say that the Cubs are prepared to make any moves necessary solidify their status as World Series contenders.