The Chicago Cubs' offseason strategy aimed to bolster their rotation, and while Edward Cabrera might not be the prototypical ace, his addition certainly elevates the team's pitching depth. Matthew Boyd showed flashes of brilliance last season, but the Cubs needed more firepower, and Cabrera's arrival fits the bill.
Defining an "ace" can be subjective. While names like Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes are clear-cut, the distinction becomes murkier further down the list. The Athletic's tiered ranking of MLB's top starters offers some insights, but for Cubs fans, it presents a mixed bag.
On the bright side, three Cubs starters made it into the top 50. However, their specific rankings raise eyebrows.
Boyd and Cabrera find themselves in the "No. 4s and No. 5s" tier, which seems a bit harsh given their potential impact. Boyd, for instance, tied with Tanner Bibee, despite having a significantly better ERA and FIP.
Cabrera, ranked just ahead of Boyd, sees his former teammate Eury Perez placed much higher despite less impressive stats. These rankings might undervalue Boyd and Cabrera's potential, but being in the top 50 still signals they're far from mere back-end starters.
The Cubs' rotation thrives on depth. Alongside Cabrera and Boyd, Cade Horton also made the list, outranking his more seasoned counterparts. With Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Colin Rea, and prospect Jaxson Wiggins, the Cubs boast a robust mix of talent.
Boyd and Cabrera stand as pivotal figures. Their ability to perform at elite levels hinges on health and consistency over a grueling season. Manager Craig Counsell's knack for strategic rotation management could be crucial in keeping them fresh and effective.
Ultimately, Cubs fans shouldn't dwell too much on these rankings. The team may lack a definitive ace, but they possess a wealth of quality arms poised to make waves in 2026. With the right mix of talent and potential, the Cubs are set to be a formidable force.