ESPN analyst predicts All-Star pitcher to Cubs |
The Cubs are looking for a fifth starter or someone that could add some youth to their starting rotation. ESPN analyst Jerry Crasnick predicts that the Rays general manager Matt Silverman will trade All-Star pitcher Chris Archer to the Cubs.
"The Cubs acquire Chris Archer in a trade with Tampa Bay. Archer strengthens the Chicago rotation as the Cubs gear up to make a run at another world championship," Crasnick said. "He also gives the Cubs long-term protection in the event Jake Arrieta leaves through free agency next winter. Jorge Soler, a superfluous piece in Chicago, will give Tampa Bay a young power outfield bat, and the Rays can choose from a menu that includes Ian Happ, Eloy Jimenez and Dylan Cease to stockpile a nucleus of young talent." He has five years left on his contract with the Rays including $4.75 million in 2017, $6.25 million in 2018, and $7.5 million in 2019, $9 million in 2020, and $11 million in 2021. In 2016, he was 9-19 with a 4.02 ERA with 233 strikeouts and a 1.24 WHIP. He was 8th in innings pitched (201.1), 2nd in the AL in strikeouts (233), and 8th in walks (67). In 2015, he was named to an All-Star for the American League. For his career, he has an impressive 3.51 ERA going 41-51 with 795 strikeouts and a 1.20 WHIP. He was drafted in the fifth round of the 2006 MLB Draft by the Cleveland Indians.
