DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Who closes if Gregg goes?
Jun 28 2013
Though Kevin Gregg (RHP, CHC) has filled in admirably since taking over the closer’s job in May—including 12 saves and a BPV spike not seen since 2006—rumors persist that he’ll be traded by July 31. Gregg is living on borrowed fanalytic time, as his 26% hit rate and 91% strand rate attest. But by hanging on at this level for just a couple more weeks, Gregg will provide “value” for those MLB GMs who like guys that have saved games before.
Given that both Carlos Marmol (RHP, CHC) and Kyuji Fujikawa (RHP, CHC) are out of the picture, who are the Cubs’ closer candidates if and when Gregg moves on? Two candidates stand out:
- James Russell (LHP, CHC) has a 94 BPV and is in his fourth season, so he should get consideration....
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
The BHQ playing time metrics give us a new perspective on our previous beliefs about NL West players. So this week, let's see what we can learn.
May 16 2026 3:06am
May 16 2026 3:06am
Michael Conforto is playing more against righties during a hot streak, but the Cubs are trying to keep Moisés Ballesteros in the lineup against them as well
May 15 2026 3:05am
May 15 2026 3:05am
Using BaseballHQ's exclusive Playing Time Metrics to examine usage trends across the NL East.
May 14 2026 11:17am
May 14 2026 11:17am
Isaac Collins has struggled vs. LHP, and it might be time for the Royals to give Jac Caglianone another shot at everyday at-bats. Plus, Sam Antonacci's rise in CHW, Angel Martínez's platoon splits in CLE, an opportunity for Matt Vierling in DET, and why the Twins won't play Ryan Jeffers more.
May 14 2026 3:06am
May 14 2026 3:06am
Vaughn Grissom and Oswald Peraza are forcing the issue to change the platoon situation in Anaheim.
May 13 2026 3:05am
May 13 2026 3:05am
