Bleed Cubbie Blue · Dec 30, 2022
The Cubs should make Adbert Alzolay their closer. Here’s why.
Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty ImagesI’ve been riding the “Adbert Alzolay for Closer” train for quite some time, so I thought now would be a good time to explain my reasoning. While I obviously have zero personal influence over David Ross’ pitching choices, this is one I hope he and the rest of Cubs management make for 2023.
The first reason, one that should be obvious just by looking at his numbers, is that Alzolay has been a far better pitcher in relief than as a starter throughout his MLB career.
As starter: 27 games, 130 IP, 5.19 ERA, 1.254 WHIP, 9.3 K/9 innings, 28 HR allowed
As reliever: 18 games, 42\u2154 IP, 2.32 ERA, 0.961 WHIP, 11.6 K/9 innings, 3 HR allowed