PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Rondon locked in for now, but what if spring struggles continue?

Chicago Cubs

Héctor Rondón (RHP, CHC) has struggled mightily this spring, as he's surrendered nine earned runs in just 4.1 innings of work. Manager Joe Maddon recently indicated he's not concerned, and Rondon's elite skills from last year, particularly in the second half (57 percent ground ball rate, 1.8 Ctl, 10.1 Dom) should ensure a reasonable leash in the role. However, as noted in this space a few weeks ago, he lost the job for a while last season before reclaiming it, and has a couple of viable alternatives lurking behind him. 

Should Rondon's poor results carry over into the regular season, both Pedro Strop and Justin Grimm boast closer-worth skills. In the meantime, both pitchers should help out with solid ratios, though it...

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

NL West rotations are mostly set, but the rosters still have plenty of room for shuffling during the spring's remaining weeks.
Mar 14 2026 3:04am
Shane Drohan may be the most intriguing piece in the return for Caleb Durbin.
Mar 13 2026 3:05am
Top Twins prospects Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez will start 2026 at Triple-A, but seem likely to get a call-up at some point this season. Plus, saves in CHW, the Guardians' middle infield, an unknown Tiger, and Starling Marte and Lane Thomas in KC.
Mar 12 2026 3:05am
Top to bottom, the Washington Nationals have one of the youngest—and most high-variance—teams in baseball. Plus: SP in MIA; Profar fallout in ATL; C at NYM; RP in PHI; more.
Mar 11 2026 8:30am
With Jeremy Peña suffering a finger injury, the Astros may be shuffling things up in the infield to start the season.
Mar 11 2026 8:10am

Tools