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The Cubs made some of their final moves of the spring, making a multitude of roster moves, but Maddon also finalized his rotation for the season, leaving Mike Montgomery’s name off that list.
So #Cubs rotation will be Lester, Arrieta, Lackey, Anderson and Hendricks
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) March 23, 2017
Maddon also mentioned he liked Montgomery in the bullpen to start the season, which logistically makes sense with Montgomery excelling during his time in the Cubs bullpen last year. While it may come as a shock to some, I got the sense nobody in the Cubs organization was that surprised as I was hearing that Anderson had the job locked up as early as late Sunday night.
Confirming what everyone else is reporting, a source has told me Anderson is considered the leader for the #Cubs 5th rotation spot
— Sean Sears (@sean_sears6) March 20, 2017
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Of course, this doesn’t rule out Montgomery making an appearance in the rotation during the season, but the plan for the Cubs will be to roll with Anderson, baring health, and utilize Montgomery as a lefty-reliever/swing role. Logistically this makes the most sense for the Cubs with their lack of left-handed relievers in their bullpen, and this early in the season most pitchers need to start their routines and find their rhythm for the season.
Having six guys in the rotation makes that much more difficult, and players like Jon Lester have openly opposed that idea, however I wouldn’t be surprised if the Cubs do limit their pitchers inning-wise. Maybe institute a pitch count for guys like Lester, Arrieta and Lackey to keep them fresh throughout the season.
Regardless, the Cubs are only 10 days away from the regular season and I couldn’t be more excited to see some meaningful baseball.
