Cubs Could Steal Potential Braves Target, Sign $15 Million Pitcher

The Chicago Cubs have the main pieces of their rotation in place with Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd and Jameson Taillon.

However, as things stand now, Taillon is the only right-handed pitcher projected for the rotation. Justin Steele is the fourth pitcher for the Cubs, making it three southpaws among starting pitchers.

It's very rare to see a team with more than two lefties in the rotation, but the Cubs have found a way to make it work. They could certainly use another right-handed option, and this two-time World Series Champion would fit in well.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 18: Max Scherzer #31 of the Texas Rangers throws a pitch against the Houston Astros during the first inning in Game Three of the American League Championship Series at Globe Life... Carmen Mandato/Getty Images

Max Scherzer, who was linked to the Braves on Tuesday, could sign with the Cubs and fill the final spot of their rotation.

In just nine outings in 2024, Scherzer recorded a 3.95 ERA and posted 40 strikeouts compared to just 10 walks. Health issues with his back, thumb and shoulder prevented him from playing more in his final season with the Texas Rangers.

However, the starts he made showed he can still be effective. He never threw more than 6 2/3 innings in a start, but he conceded three or fewer earned runs in all but one start.

Scherzer may not be the ace he once was for the Nationals, but his career is far from over. He is projected to sign a one-year, $15 million deal in free agency.

His knowledge of the game and experience can not only help him win with a team like the Cubs, but could make the rest of the rotation better as well with the various pitching coaches he has worked with in his career.

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