The Chicago Cubs are opting for funk over velocity when it comes to their bullpen acquisitions this winter.
In late November, the Cubs signed right-hander Phil Maton, who sits in the low 90s with his fastball but can nonetheless rack up strikeouts. And on Thursday, the Cubs reportedly acquired a new left-handed bullpen counterpart who throws one of the softest fastballs in the league on average.
According to multiple reports, the Cubs were in agreement with left-handed pitcher Hoby Milner on a one-year, major league contract. The 34-year-old brings nine years of major league experience to the table, most recently as a member of the Texas Rangers.
Britt Ghiroli of The Athletic was the first with the news of the Milner signing, which she also reported is for $3.75 million, plus incentives.
This past season, Milner pitched to a 3.84 ERA in 70 1/3 innings, striking out 58 batters and posting a 1.27 WHIP. As a member of the Milwaukee Brewers for the previous four seasons, he rattled off a 3.64 ERA in 215 1/3 innings.
Against left-handed batters, Milner allowed just a .208 batting average and .300 slugging percentage this season, as his sidewinding motion and wicked slider often have lefties all tied up. But he’s never been particularly effective against righties, who have an easier time picking up that motion and can take advantage of his fastball, which averages 87.6 mph.
It’s a low-cost move for the Cubs, who have yet to address their starting rotation, arguably a bigger need than the bullpen coming into the season. But it’s also one with upside, as Milner has a lot of solid seasons under his belt and can excel in a specialist role against a pocket of tough lefties.
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