The Cubs might have experienced a better postseason outcome had Cade Horton been healthy, but they still would have had trouble dealing with the legions of hard-throwing relievers their opponents rolled out. Both the Padres and Brewers boasted bullpens with top-10 fastball velocity and strikeout rates, while the Cubs ranked 13th and 15th in those respective categories. All pro sports are copycat leagues, and the Cubs have gone too long without prioritizing stuff and velo.
That may be changing, however, as they appear to be set on beefing up the bullpen this winter. They’ve already added righty Phil Maton on a very rare multiyear deal, and multiple reports say they’re not done with significant signings.