The Chicago Cubs should consider signing this World Series champion following Taillon’s injury.
Jameson Taillon was sidelined from his inaugural Spring Training start due to back tightness this past Saturday. This setback comes at a crucial time for the Chicago Cubs, who were banking on Taillon’s resurgence after a lackluster debut season with the team. Now, there’s a looming risk of him being absent at the start of the upcoming season.
The current composition of the Cubs roster doesn’t afford them the luxury of enduring injuries. While short-term replacements for Taillon are available, the team lacks the depth to withstand prolonged absences from key players. Such a situation could significantly impact the outcome of the season.
Details regarding Taillon’s recovery timeline have yet to be disclosed. The decision to pull him from the lineup may have been a precautionary measure aimed at preventing any long-term implications.
Nevertheless, the front office faces a pressing need to take action. Considering the possibility of Taillon’s absence at the season’s outset, this presents an opportune moment for the Cubs to pursue Jordan Montgomery.
Although Montgomery may also miss the start of the season due to his lack of exposure to live hitters in game situations, his transition back to competition should be relatively swift. Notably, the southpaw played a pivotal role in the Texas Rangers’ 2023 World Series triumph, boasting an impressive 2.79 ERA over 67 2/3 innings. If he replicates this form for the Cubs, he could emerge as a leading force in their pitching rotation.
With eight seasons of experience under his belt, primarily with the New York Yankees, Montgomery brings a seasoned presence to the mound. Adjusting to the demands of pitching in Chicago should be manageable given his familiarity with high expectations from passionate fan bases.
While acquiring Montgomery may require a significant investment, it’s a strategic move that the Cubs’ front office must seriously contemplate at this juncture.
