I mean you don't have to trade underwood. If the right trade is there sure but his stuff plays up out of a bullpen even better. Keep in mind it seems like they will likely part ways from Monty at some point and Butler isn't exactly a sure thing as that long reliever role in the bullpen. Given the last few years of pitching drought we're not accustomed to having depth. But there's a case to be made the best way to break young starters in is to start them in the bullpen in the majors. That way they get acclimated to the MLB life as opposed to minors and there's not as much pressure to be "the guy" on day one.
In other news Rollie Lacy had another good start. His season stats are now a 2.82 ERA over 38.1 IP with a 1.18 whip and a 41/11 k/bb ratio. That breaks down to a 9.63 k/9 and a 2.58 bb/9. If there's room in MB wouldn't be shocked to see him called up soon. He's 22 so he's not super old for A but 22 would be better in A+.
I was honestly thinking using Underwood to bolster the pen.. Underwood is the type of guy that would be a strong option for a bad team honestly where the pressure to win now wont hamper his development.
If I had to target 1 thing with the Cubs it is a prime set up for Morrow. Now I like Cishek slot. But they can't depend on him solely.
Cishek: 1.71 ERA 1.14 WHIP
Duensing 0.61 ERA 1.23 ERA
Strop: 1.35 ERA 0.85 WHIP
Edwards: 3.27 ERA 1.27 WHIP
Wilson 3.44 ERA 1.58 WHIP
Montgomery: 5.33 ERA 1.46 WHIP
last spot in rotation.
So I do see 1 spot in long relief available. But the 2 guys that you want to come in in high pressure spots really suck. And Montgomery has been hot trash.
Alzolay I would push to the pen. He is a 2 pitch pitcher and in shorter stints you can max out his talent like Edwards. But Underwood is a starter with a starters arsenal. He would be a strong candidate to a bad team looking for a controllable starter option for a short term sale.
Shoot SDP. Ideal spot and Jed has worked there so not really a reach in a partner.
Hand you are not getting unless you really start to add in legit talent with Underwood.
but
Craig Stammen: not over priced and could argue this one.
Kerby Yates. Another guy that could stabilize the pen.
Phil Maton: (Walk rate kinda scary)
That is just 1 team.
Shoot Tyson Ross is making a come back this year there.