The Chicago Cubs are facing an exciting decision as they prepare for the upcoming baseball season. The team is seriously considering young pitcher Ben Brown for the coveted fifth spot in their starting rotation. This evaluation comes at a critical time as the Cubs are looking to build a strong team that can perform well throughout the season.
Ben Brown’s Impressive Skills
At just 24 years old, Ben Brown has shown great promise on the mound. His fastball is impressive, averaging around 96.4 mph, which puts him in the top ranks among potential starting pitchers. Along with this, his curveball has also been gaining attention as a potent weapon, ranking high in pitch velocity. Last season, he pitched 55.1 innings, racking up 66 strikeouts with a solid 3.23 ERA. So, you can see why the Cubs are buzzing with excitement about his potential!
The Competition for the Fifth Spot
While many are rooting for Brown, he’s not the only player in the running for that fifth rotation spot. Other candidates include experienced pitchers like Colin Rea and Javier Assad, who have more major league time under their belts. Javier Assad particularly stands out because he has been a reliable player but currently faces an oblique strain, which has opened the door for more competition. There’s also Jordan Wicks and non-roster invitees vying for that final place, making it even more challenging for Brown.
The Challenge of Managing Innings
One of the key concerns for the Cubs is how to manage Brown’s innings, especially considering the importance of preserving his performance for the long-haul. The Cubs have a solid pitching lineup that includes players like Shota Imanaga and Jameson Taillon, which gives them flexibility. It’s possible that they might start Brown in a relief role to limit his innings at the beginning of the season, ensuring he stays healthy for the long term.
Brown’s Determination to Prove Himself
Ben Brown has stated his desire to succeed in whatever role he is assigned, whether it’s as a starter or in relief. His competitive nature and his goal to dominate on the field make him a strong candidate. He has openly expressed that he sees himself as a starter for the long run, and with a performance during the Cactus League that impresses coaches and fans alike, he could potentially secure that starting position for Opening Day.
What’s At Stake for the Cubs?
The Cubs are aiming to field the best roster they can, emphasizing performance and winning games. Brown is a talent that could play a major role in the Cubs’ quest to be contenders, so it’s pivotal that the organization makes the right call regarding his spot on the team. The combination of Brown’s potential as a high-leverage reliever along with his striking statistics suggests that even if he’s not a starter, he could still have an impactful role throughout the season.
