Cubs Sign Julio Teheran After Mets Stint: What It Means for Chicago’s Rotation
The Chicago Cubs have made a notable addition to their pitching staff, signing right-hander Julio Teheran after his brief tenure with the New York Mets. This move comes in the wake of Teheran’s designation for assignment by the Mets and subsequent entry into free agency, culminating in a swift transition to the Cubs’ roster in what has been a whirlwind week for the veteran pitcher.
Teheran’s time in New York was short-lived, marked by just one start in which he yielded four runs over 2 2/3 innings during a game against the Braves on April 8. Despite being signed to a Major League contract by the Mets, albeit non-guaranteed, Teheran’s performance didn’t earn him an extended opportunity, leading to his departure once roster adjustments permitted the Mets to recall another player.
The Cubs’ decision to bring in Teheran is partly influenced by their ongoing rotation challenges due to injuries. While Jameson Taillon is nearing a return from the injured list, Justin Steele is set to be out until at least May. This leaves the Cubs with a rotation mix comprising Kyle Hendricks, Shota Imanaga, Jordan Wicks, Javier Assad, and Ben Brown. Given the limited MLB experience in this group aside from Hendricks, Teheran’s signing provides a seasoned option to fill in until the team is at full strength.
Teheran’s familiarity with Cubs manager Craig Counsell, who previously managed him during his time with the Milwaukee Brewers, adds another layer of value to this signing. Teheran’s stint with the Brewers last season saw him pitch 71 2/3 innings, showcasing his durability as a mid-rotation starter with a respectable 4.40 ERA across 14 games, 11 of which were starts.
A former two-time All-Star with the Atlanta Braves, Teheran has transitioned from a frontline starter to a reliable mid-rotation arm and now finds himself in a journeyman role, having joined his seventh different organization since 2020. This versatility and experience make him a valuable asset for the Cubs as they navigate their pitching needs throughout the season.
Looking ahead, Teheran could slot into the Cubs’ rotation for several starts or serve as depth at Triple-A, providing flexibility depending on the team’s requirements and the performance of younger arms like Wicks and Assad. With Counsell’s familiarity and Teheran’s track record, the Cubs are hoping this signing will bolster their pitching depth and contribute to their success on the field.
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