N※N

Cubs advised to gamble on Mets' fallen star for closer role | Sporting News Canada

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. n-star-for-closer-role-sporting-news-canada.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, September 20th 2025 at 16:36 GMT by Sporting News
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Cubs Revamp the Bullpen: A Fallen Mets Star Is Poised for a Closer’s Role – What It Means for the Franchise

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the baseball press, the Chicago Cubs have turned to a former New York Mets pitcher who once dazzled the Mets’ fan base but has since slipped from the spotlight. The acquisition—announced last night during a press conference at Wrigley Field—has the Cubs looking to cement a new closer on a roster that has been notoriously volatile in the postseason. With the Mets' own bullpen facing turbulence, the Cubs’ gamble has the potential to be a double‑edge sword: a fresh infusion of firepower on the mound or a costly misstep that could ripple into the remainder of the season.

A Brief on the Fallen Star

The pitcher at the center of the story is Carlos Rodríguez (not the real name, used for illustration). Rodríguez spent three seasons with the Mets, earning the nickname “The Midnight Mauler” for his late‑night shutouts. He posted a 2.98 ERA over 120 innings during his rookie campaign and was on a trajectory that saw him become a cornerstone of the Mets’ bullpen.

However, a combination of shoulder tendinitis, a rotator cuff injury in 2023, and a surge of new talent in the Mets’ own bullpen has rendered Rodríguez an unsung hero. In the last two seasons, his ERAs have ballooned to 4.37 and 4.92, with a 3–9 win–loss record that would put him in the “fallen star” category for many analysts.

“It’s been tough watching Carlos’s performance dip,” said former Mets manager Tim McGraw. “But we know he’s still got the stuff. If you give him a fresh start, I think he can get back to being a reliable arm.” This sentiment is echoed across the baseball community, with many acknowledging the need for a seasoned hand that can convert high‑pressure situations into victories.

The Cubs’ Pitching Quandary

For the Cubs, the bullpen has been a litmus test for their overall playoff aspirations. Last season, the Cubs posted a 3.15 ERA from their top five relievers, but the team’s closer position was plagued by inconsistencies. Jason Banchero (a generic name for a pitcher) and Mason Kettle have traded holds and blown saves, leaving the Cubs scrambling to find a dependable “fireman” who can seal games in the ninth inning.

In a press release, Cubs General Manager Mara Doolittle said, “We’re looking for a pitcher who can bring that mental toughness and a strong finish to the game. Rodríguez has the experience, the velocity, and the arm strength that we need. It’s a perfect fit for us.”

Rodríguez, who is currently a free agent, has expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity. In a short interview, he said, “I’ve worked hard on my rehab. The Cubs’ coaching staff has been great, and I know that I can bring a strong finish to their lineup. I’m excited to prove myself again.”

The Gambler’s Perspective

While the primary focus of this trade is on the on‑field performance, a secondary dimension has emerged: the betting world’s interest in how this move will affect the Cubs’ fortunes. The phrase “Cubs advised gamble” appears as a running headline in some betting analyses, noting that many sportsbooks have adjusted the odds in favor of the Cubs in the next 12 games.

“The Cubs have been one of the most volatile teams this season, and their bullpen can swing the outcomes of games,” notes Betting Analyst Tyler Nguyen. “Rodríguez’s addition offers a 12% improvement in bullpen efficiency, according to our models, which could be game‑changing.” The betting odds for the Cubs’ next match now include a “+18” spread in favor of the Cubs, a stark improvement from the last week when the spread was +25.

These numbers are not just theoretical. The Chicago Cubs have had 20% of their games decided by a single run in the last 30 games. A reliable closer can turn those narrow losses into wins. As such, sportsbooks are adjusting payouts to reflect the improved expectation of clutch performances by Rodríguez.

What the Trade Means for the Mets

The Mets, who signed Rodríguez a few years ago, have seen his role shift from a high‑volume closer to a more limited, situational reliever. With the new bullpen structure featuring Ethan Carter and Marcus Paredes—both recent acquisitions—the Mets are looking to streamline their pitching staff and address a lack of late‑innings experience.

“We’re happy with the direction we’re heading,” said Mets pitching coach Lara Martinez. “Rodríguez will still be a part of our system, but we’re focusing on creating depth across all relief positions.” Despite his departure, the Mets are hoping that the experience Rodríguez brings will be valuable to their minor‑league pitchers who will inherit his knowledge.

Potential Risks and Rewards

While Rodríguez’s track record speaks for itself, the risk factor remains high. The injuries he has sustained can impact his ability to generate consistent velocity. A recent preseason scan revealed minor tendon thickening in his right shoulder—though the Cubs’ medical team has assured the public that it’s not a serious concern.

“We’re not making a cavalier decision,” Doolittle reiterated. “Every arm is evaluated thoroughly, and Rodríguez’s medical history shows that he has the resilience to get back to prime form. We’re investing in his future.”

From a strategic standpoint, the Cubs’ decision also reflects a shift toward a “bullpen-first” philosophy. Manager Luca Rossi is known for his aggressive use of relievers, and Rodríguez’s experience can give Rossi the flexibility to push pitchers through high‑leverage situations.

The Bigger Picture

If the Cubs can harness Rodríguez’s talent, the implications extend beyond a single game. A stable closer can elevate the team’s overall pitching performance, reduce the pressure on starters, and create more opportunities for the offense to capitalize. In the playoffs, where a single misstep can derail a run, a reliable closer is a luxury the Cubs have not always possessed.

Moreover, the move signals to the market that the Cubs are serious about staying competitive in a tight division. With the Mets, the Phillies, and the Brewers all vying for a spot, any improvement in the bullpen can tilt the balance.

Final Thoughts

The “Cubs advised gamble” headline may have begun as a play on words, but it carries weight for fans, bettors, and baseball strategists alike. The Cubs’ acquisition of a former Mets star who has stumbled but is not yet done shows the franchise’s willingness to take calculated risks. If Rodríguez can bounce back from his injuries and deliver in the moments that matter, the Cubs could finally secure a bullpen that matches their offensive firepower.

In the end, the Cubs’ gamble may prove to be a masterstroke. But, as with all baseball moves, the true outcome will only be seen on the field, when Rodríguez steps onto the mound, throws that critical pitch, and possibly seals yet another victory for the Cubs.