The Chicago Cubs are considering adding one of two veteran free-agent pitchers, Lance Lynn or Kyle, to strengthen the back of their starting rotation. According to Ken Rosenthal and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic, the Cubs are keeping an eye on these 37-year-olds in case any issues arise after spring training and their lengthy trip to Japan. Lynn and Gibson, former teammates with the St. Louis Cardinals, each had solid seasons in 2024. Lynn posted a 7-4 record with a 3.84 ERA in 117.1 innings, while Gibson had an 8-8 record with a 4.24 ERA over 169.2 innings. While neither of these seasoned pitchers would likely be a game-changer for the Cubs, they remain reliable options who can provide valuable innings.
The Cubs have shown a willingness to rely on older players, especially in their rotation. Only Justin Steele, under 30, is currently projected as a starter, and he will hit that milestone in July. With veterans like Jameson Taillon (33), Matthew Boyd (34), and Colin Rea (34) also expected to start, adding Lynn or Gibson poses minimal risk. However, The Athletic article notes that neither pitcher is guaranteed a rotation spot or a place on the major league roster, and these moves appear to be precautionary. The Cubs aren’t expecting either pitcher to have an immediate major impact, but testing whether Lynn or Gibson can contribute could provide valuable depth for a team aiming to reach the postseason for the first time since 2020.
