Uncertainty prevails over the return of Chicago Cubs starter Matt Garza – MLB News
The clouds of uncertainty hovering over the Chicago Cubs’ starter Matt Garza refuse to disperse. The starter who was diagnosed with a stress reaction in the back of his right elbow is out of the lineup since July 21. Now that he is formally in the 15-day
disabled list, will he be able to make it to the team?
That question does not apparently have an absolute answer given the initial reports that Garza might not be able to pitch again this season due to the severity of the injury. His being in the disabled list implies more challenges for the Chicago Cubs.
Last month, the Cubs traded their star pitcher like Ryan Dempster and Paul Maholm to different teams, getting young pitchers in return. But the Cubs probably need some veterans too to bolster the rotation.
The troika – comprising Ryan Dempster, Paul Maholm and Matt Garza, was a source of strength for the Cubs, providing it massive support when it came to rotation. Now that the three are conspicuously absent, since the two have been traded and one in disabled
list, the Cubs need to reassess all their strategies.
This season, Matt Garza appeared in a total of 18 games, having been starter in all the games. The Cubs pitcher had 3.91 ERA in 103.2 innings that he pitched, allowing 90 hits and having 96 strikeouts with 5-7 record.
Matt Garza’s being around would inspire confidence given the experience and power that he has. His career ERA, in 170 games, is 3.84 with 57-61 records. As he was consigned to the disabled list, the Cubs brought Brooks Raley from Minor League system.
The fact that there are no other senior pitchers around who can be brought in proves the fact that the Cubs now heavily rely on the youngsters. It is a team which is in a building phase, and the likes of Raley will be of massive strength for the team in
the future.
Nonetheless, as the period of 15-day disabled list nearing its end, the Cubs hope Matt Garza will be able to make a comeback and, strengthen the Cubs defence.
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