There are a whole lot of moving parts here, but the key piece of information is that the Cubs are reportedly seeking two starting pitchers this offseason. That comes from Jon Heyman, who listed eight teams trying to add multiple starters. It’s a deep market in that regard, especially when you factor in those players possibly available in trade, so it makes sense for Jed Hoyer to explore all the options.
Though some may be skeptical of the team’s need to fill more than the spot vacated by Marcus Stroman, we can all agree that it would be unwise to bank on just five pitchers to hold up all season.