Because Justin Grimm’s release had been a very real possibility since at least last August, there has been rampant speculation as to who would take his place on the roster. Now that we’re actually living in a reality in which Grimm’s inconsistency finally proved to be too much for the Cubs, they’ve got less than two weeks to name a replacement.
While there has certainly been no consensus, most of the smart money seems to be on Eddie Butler, who has starter’s credentials and is out of minor league options. That latter point could be viewed as something of a detriment, but it also makes Butler a use-him-or-lose him candidate who could earn a roster spot rather than be released like Grimm.