Craig Kimbrel finished 2018 with a stellar 2.74 ERA and 3.13 FIP in 62 innings, but his second-half walk rate was a high 6.23 BB/9. For a Cubs team searching for more strikes out of their bullpen, should they be concerned about Kimbrel’s excessive walks?
The Cubs undoubtedly pondered that aspect of his performance but perhaps they believe it to be an anomaly that can be addressed. From what I can tell, Kimbrel’s release point deviated around the same time that his command worsened. Specifically, the new Cubs closer’s horizontal release power flew away from his shoulder starting around July.