Jesse Chavez is a low-key, great signing for Chicago CubsRyan Sikeson March 14, 2022 at 3:07 pm 2024 Events Concerts Things To Do

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs brought back a familiar face over the weekend, signing bullpen arm Jesse Chavez to a minor league contract with an invite to Major League camp.

“I just wanted a fit,” Chavez said via MLB.com. “Things didn’t happen with some other clubs. But this one’s always been there. It’s always been on the table, and I just had to take it. It felt like a great time for me and my family to choose this place.”

Chavez, 38, was outstanding in his first stint with the Cubs. He was acquired in July 2018 from the Texas Rangers and went on to post a 1.15 ERA in 32 appearances, all out of the bullpen. Heading into the offseason, Chavez indicated that there was only one jersey he wanted to put on, implying he wanted to return to Chicago.

However, the two sides couldn’t get a deal done, and the Rangers brought Chavez back instead.

In Texas, Chavez had a rough go of it over two seasons, posting a 4.85 and 6.88 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. After a brief stint with Angels, he was inked to a minor league deal with Atlanta in April 2021, where he regained his form.

If Jesse Chavez can pitch like he did in 2021, he will be a great addition to the Chicago Cubs bullpen.

With the Braves, Chavez posted a 2.14 ERA in 30 appearances, including four spot starts, with a 9.6 K/9 and 2.9 BB/9.

The San Gabriel, CA native has a great chance to make the Cubs’ Opening Day roster, especially after the injury to Codi Heuer. If he can continue to pitch like he did in Atlanta and his first stint in Chicago, Chavez will be a terrific addition to a bullpen that needs some veteran depth.

He also provides the option for spot starts if injuries occur within the rotation.

The big righty relies heavily on his cut-fastball and sinker, accounting for a combined 76.3 percent last season. Opponents hit just .208 and .143 off the two pitches, respectively.

If Jesse Chavez can pitch like he did in 2021, he will be a great addition to the Chicago Cubs bullpen.

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