MESA, Ariz. – Even if the Cubs find enough quality, health and depth this year from Jon Lester and the rest of the rotation, it remains an open question whether they’ll find enough to shut down the end of the game.
Former closer Brandon Morrow is back for another try at staying healthy enough to help the back end of the bullpen for the first time since July 2018. His replacement that year and early last season, Pedro Strop, is gone.
And then there’s closer Craig Kimbrel. The seven-time All-Star. The biggest disappointment from last year’s team this side of Morrow.