Cole Hamels’ Cubs debut on Wednesday answered a few questions about whether or not the 34 year old four time all star can still get the job done, but his viability going forward is still in question.
The Cubs sent long-reliever and spot-starter Eddie Butler and two low level prospects to the Texas Rangers for Hamels’ services, hoping he can provide production similar to former Cubs starter John Lackey, whose veteran presence and consistent mediocrity has been sorely missed on a battered and underperforming pitching staff.
For the price they paid, gambling on Hamels was a small price for a potentially huge reward.