Three Pitchers To Compete For Chicago Cubs Fifth Rotation Spot

The Chicago Cubs are in search of a fifth starter and there are a few pitchers in contention for the role.

David Ross, the Cubs manager, announced that Javier Assad, Adrian Sampson, and Hayden Wesneski are all in contention for the role.

Haydeb Wesneski is the most promising candidate for the spot after posting a 2.18 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, and 33/7 K/BB ratio across 33 innings in his first MLB season.

Wesneski's chance to earn a spot may only be temporary until Kyle Hendricks returns from his shoulder injury. Regardless, he is one of the Cubs' top prospects and compiled a 3.92 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, with 106 strikeouts over 110 innings of work last season in the minors.

Hayden Wesneski...

Hayden has been left off essentially every national "Top 100" list despite (1) measurable success against MLB hitter in +30 innings and (2) multiple pitch types grading better than 85% of MLB pitches thrown. https://t.co/K03Ahs0hPe pic.twitter.com/cN7WWtikfb

— Brendan Miller (@brendan_cubs) January 21, 2023

Javier Assad had a 3.11 ERA in eight starts and one relief appearance last season, but his 18.1 percent strikeout rate and 12.0 percent walk rate were unimpressive.

Adrian Sampson, on the other hand, has a 3.03 ERA in 139.2 innings for the Cubs over the last two seasons, but his low 17.6 percent strikeout rate is a concern.

While the competition is tight, the Cubs will have a few options to choose from. Photo Credit:  Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports