As the Chicago Cubs continue their fight for a postseason berth, much of their success has been due to the resurgence of their bullpen. While many have focused on the star players and starting rotation, a few key relievers have emerged as unsung heroes. Jorge López, Porter Hodge, and Julian Merryweather have stepped up when it matters most, turning the Cubs’ bullpen into a strength down the stretch.
Bullpen Breakout: The Unsung Heroes Of The Cubs’ Playoff Chase
Jorge López: The Experienced Closer Turned Setup Man
Jorge López, acquired midseason to stabilize the Cubs’ bullpen, has brought a wealth of experience and poise to the late innings. The former All-Star closer has seamlessly transitioned into a setup role, using his sinker-slider combination to get crucial outs. His ability to handle pressure situations has made him invaluable, whether it’s preserving a lead or keeping the game within reach.
López’s versatility allows him to pitch in multiple roles, making him a key weapon for manager Craig Counsell. His veteran presence has also helped mentor younger pitchers in the bullpen, providing guidance and a steady hand as the Cubs navigate the high-stakes environment of a playoff race.
Porter Hodge: The Rookie Sensation
Porter Hodge, called up earlier this season, has quickly become one of the most exciting young arms in the Cubs’ bullpen. The 23-year-old has impressed with his mid-90s fastball and a sharp breaking ball that has left hitters guessing. Hodge’s ability to generate strikeouts in high-leverage situations has made him a go-to option for Craig Counsell when the game is on the line.
Despite his youth, Hodge has demonstrated remarkable composure, frequently entering games with runners on base and escaping jams unscathed. His emergence has provided the Cubs with a fresh arm capable of delivering big outs in critical moments, making him a vital part of the bullpen as the postseason nears.
Julian Merryweather: The Power Arm
Julian Merryweather, a right-hander who was stellar last season, has quietly become one of the Cubs’ most effective relievers. With a fastball that consistently hits the upper 90s and a nasty splitter, Merryweather has been able to overpower hitters and deliver crucial outs in tight spots. His ability to pitch multiple innings has been particularly valuable, giving the Cubs flexibility in managing their bullpen.
Merryweather has stepped up in the second half of the season, significantly lowering his ERA and becoming a reliable option in various roles. Whether it’s pitching in the seventh or eighth inning or covering multiple frames when a starter falters, Merryweather’s consistency and strikeout ability have been a pleasant surprise for the Cubs, turning him into a key piece of their postseason puzzle.
Building a Bullpen For October
The combination of López, Hodge, and Merryweather has given the Cubs’ bullpen the depth and flexibility needed for a playoff push. Each pitcher brings something unique to the table—López’s experience and versatility, Hodge’s electric stuff and youthful energy, and Merryweather’s power arm and ability to handle different roles. This trio has stabilized a bullpen that was a question mark early in the season, allowing the Cubs to win close games and stay in contention.
Key Stats To Note
– Bullpen ERA: The Cubs’ bullpen has been among the best in the National League since the All-Star break, thanks in large part to the contributions of these three key relievers.
– Strikeout Rate: The trio has helped the Cubs maintain one of the highest strikeout rates in the league, reducing scoring opportunities for opponents.
– High-Leverage Success: In critical moments, these relievers have consistently delivered, stranding inherited runners and converting saves and holds at a high rate.
Looking Forward
As the Cubs approach the final weeks of the regular season, their bullpen will be essential to their playoff hopes. With López, Hodge, and Merryweather anchoring the relief corps, the Cubs have the weapons to navigate tight games and pressure-packed situations. Their performances will be crucial in determining whether the Cubs can secure a spot in October.
These three relievers may not always make the headlines, but they have been the backbone of the Cubs’ playoff chase. With their continued success, the Cubs have a fighting chance to make some noise in the postseason.
Main Photo Credits: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
