NL Central: A Cubs closer shift on the horizon?

Chicago Cubs 

Héctor Neris (RHP, CHC) has had a bumpy season, but he may be getting hot at just the right time for the Cubs to sell him at the trade deadline. Across seven appearances in July, he’s maintained a 1.50 ERA and 1.17 WHIP, with an impressive 8:2 K:BB. The team is also preparing, whether intentionally or not, for a potential shift in the closer role, regardless of Neris’ status on the roster. 

The name likely on everyone’s mind at the moment is Nate Pearson (RHP, CHC), whom the Cubs acquired Saturday from Toronto. His results this season suggest he’s nothing close to closer worthy (5.62 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 1.8 HR/9), but his skills have been far better (18 K-BB%, 3.94 xERA). Watching how the Cubs deploy Pearson with...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With Brent Rooker out for the season, Carlos Cortes could be back in the playing time mix in Sacramento.
Jul 8 2026 3:05am
Chandler Simpson's wheels were slowed during the speedster's lengthy stolen base drought, but he's now showing signs of breaking past his slump and helping his case to stick in Tampa Bay's lineup. Plus, more from around the AL East.
Jul 7 2026 3:05am
As the Mets shake things up, new opportunities for playing time will reveal themselves. Plus: 1B in WAS; SS in ATL; SP in MIA; Nola in PHI; more.
Jul 6 2026 9:00am
This week, we take a close look at Kyle Karros's impressive June, check in on a catching prospect in San Fran, and welcome back a few old friends.
Jul 4 2026 3:06am

Tools