The Cubs are making the playoffs, that’s a safe bet even after tonight’s tough loss, and guess what? They’re gonna need three starters for the Wild Card Series. But after the two obvious aces, manager Craig Counsell has a massive decision staring him down.
Holmes and Gausman Are Locks, But Then What?
Everyone knows Clay Holmes and Kevin Gausman are the main guys, right? They traded for those dudes for a reason. They’ve been the Cubs’ best two starters lately, even with Gausman having a bit of a rough outing against the Brewers recently. Good thing Milwaukee isn’t in the first round, huh? The smart money says those two will anchor the rotation. But here’s the kicker: Counsell can’t just cross his fingers and hope they sweep the first two games. They absolutely *need* a third starter.
The Left-Handed Dilemma: Who Steps Up?
So who gets the call for that crucial Wild Card Series start? It doesn’t even have to be a Game 3; maybe you break up the two big guns and slide the third guy into Game 2. Either way, someone has to be ready. The current rotation offers three real options, all southpaws: Matthew Boyd, Shōta Imanaga, and David Peterson. That’s a heck of a decision to make when your postseason life is on the line. Do you trust Boyd? Imanaga? Peterson?
You know there are always other names floating around. Maybe Javier Assad, or Colin Rea, or even a bullpen game. But for a Wild Card Series start, when the stakes are through the roof, you gotta lean into one of those three lefties and trust them alongside Holmes and Gausman. Counsell has to pick the guy who can deliver under immense pressure. That third starter could make or break this whole thing for the Cubs in the Wild Card Series.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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