The Chicago Cubs have agreed to terms with Michael Fulmer. The free agent, right-handed relief pitcher agreed to a one-year deal with the North-Siders, according to Ken Rosenthal of the The Athletic.
Immediate Help
The Cubs had been looking for another veteran reliever, and Fulmer will provide immediate help to their bullpen with his experience. He should fit in right away for them since not much went right for them last season. The Cubs finished in the bottom-ten in most bullpen categories last year, including hits given up and earned runs.
Former Starter
Michael Fulmer has made an excellent transition from starter to the bullpen following Tommy John surgery in 2019. He has found success out of the bullpen, both as a setup man, and as a closer. He has recorded 17 saves since the 2021 season.
Mix of Pitches
Fulmer is able to work in a mix of pitches. His slider and four-seam fastball are his most effective pitches. He also throws a sinker, a changeup, and a curveball. He has shown to be effective against right-handed hitters, as they batted only .188 against him in 2022.
New Bullpen
Relief pitching is a highly volatile position, and the Cubs will have several new arms in their bullpen for 2023. Brad Boxberger and Rowan Wick were the only current relievers on the roster with at least three years of major league experience. Adding Michael Fulmer helps the Cubs with the direction they are taking with their bullpen. Look for all three to add stability, and guidance to the other pitchers who make the roster.
Closer
The Cubs’ signing of Michael Fulmer comes just days prior to spring training. They are, however, still looking for a set closer. They could potentially adopt a closer-by-committee scenario with Fulmer, Boxberger, and Brandon Hughes, who was a nice surprise for the team in 2022. We could also see a competition. If Fulmer does not win the closer role, he will fit in well as a set-up man.
Option for David Ross
Michael Fulmer also gives manager David Ross another option to consider for late-inning assignments. He is not a dominant pitcher, but has shown to be a quality set-up man. Fulmer gets the ground ball outs, and has the pitches that will get the swings and misses. He now has a chance to prove himself with the Cubs this season.
Trade Option
If the Cubs are out of the playoff race by the trade deadline, however, Fulmer becomes an appealing trade option. He may not get you a top-notch player but could bring a prospect(s) who could turn out to be a contributing major league player in a few years. For now, Fulmer provides a strong bullpen presence that can help this team win games. Along with his veteran experience and leadership, he will be an asset to the Cubs on and off the field.
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