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2023 Season Highlights the Difference Between the Cubs and White Sox Organizations
The contrast is startling.
Going into the 2023 season, the Cubs seemed to have depth at starting pitching, and that has proven to be the case. However, the depth has come from unexpected sources. Marcus Stroman got off to a great start but was derailed by injuries. Drew Smyly has been lit up like a Christmas tree, and Jameson Taillon has remained in the rotation because of the generosity of David Ross, coupled with a lack of options. I’d hate to think Taillon’s contract had anything to do with it.
Depth from surprising sources
While Justin Steele has been carving out a potential Cy Young season, two rookies have given the rotation a real shot in the arm. In three starts with the Cubs, lefty Jordan Wicks has gone 3–0 with an ERA of 2.16. He has also shown great poise and looks like he belongs in a pennant race.
Right-handed Javier Assad has been remarkably steady and effective as another Cubs starter. Assad’s record stands at 3–2 but should be even better. His ERA sits at a remarkable 2.69. Assad is not a big strikeout guy but does take advantage of a great defense behind him.
For years the Cubs have struggled to produce starting pitchers, but this season they have come up with two.
