The Chicago Cubs are beginning to build out their bullpen after the loss of dependable righty Brad Keller in free agency.
Keller was great in a setup role for the Cubs for most of the season before serving as the closer in September and the playoffs. Daniel Palencia figures to resume his closer duties next year after an injury-disrupted second half, but the Cubs still had room to sign more right-handed depth — which they did on Tuesday.
Jacob Webb, a six-year major league veteran who spent the last season as a member of the Texas Rangers bullpen, signed with the Cubs on Tuesday, according to the official Major League Baseball transactions log.
Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported the deal just before it became official on Tuesday. In addition, Will Sammon of The Athletic reported that Webb will make $1.5 million this season and has a $2.5 million club option for next season. Incentives can bring those salaries up to $2 million and $3 million, respectively.
Webb, 32, had a 5-4 record and 3.00 ERA out of the bullpen in 55 appearances this year. He struck out 58 batters in 66 innings, but held opponents to a .202 batting average, resulting in an excellent 1.03 WHIP.
With just a 94 mph fastball, Webb relies on command and deception, mixing in a change-up and a sweeper. If there’s one bit of cause for concern, he allowed a career-high 35.6% fly ball rate this season, and at Wrigley Field, there will be days when the wind is blowing out and deep fly balls turn into easy home runs.
However, the Cubs were able to grab a dependable bullpen arm for relatively cheap, so there’s not much to complain about here.
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