MLB Rumors: Chicago Cubs Pursuing Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves Linked To Top Free Agent Pitcher

There have been plenty of rumors regarding where Dallas Keuchel might land, and the market for Craig Kimbrel is also taking shape now that teams don’t have to forfeit draft compensation in order to sign the free agents. A few contenders have a real interest in adding the best closer available.

The Chicago Cubs have emerged as a potential landing spot for Kimbrel. According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs are “pushing hard” for the veteran.

CBS Sports’ Jim Bowden previously named Chicago as one of the two most likely options for Kimbrel. Bowden also put the Atlanta Braves on that list, noting the team had interest in Kimbrel during the offseason but didn’t want to surrender a draft pick.

Chicago could certainly use Kimbrel. The team’s bullpen struggled mightily at the start of the season. Closer Brandon Morrow could end up missing the whole year with an elbow injury. Reliever Pedro Strop is working his way back from an injury.

The Cubs didn’t want to add to MLB’s second-highest payroll in the offseason. They might have some money to spend now that Ben Zobrist is on the restricted list and could potentially remain there for an extended period of time. Zobrist, who makes $12 million this season, isn’t getting paid while on the list.

The Braves have a worse bullpen than the Cubs. Atlanta’s relievers are eighth in the National League with a 4.31 ERA. Adding a player like Kimbrel could make them the favorites in the NL East.

It’s unknown if the Braves would ultimately be willing to increase their payroll by a significant margin during the season.

Atlanta is a half-game behind the Philadelphia Phillies for first place in the division. Chicago is tied atop the NL Central. The Braves and Cubs are separated by a half-game and could end up fighting for the same wild-card spot.

Kimbrel’s asking price might have to come down for either contender to sign him. He’s reportedly been looking for a multi-year contract, even as his free agency extended into the season.