Cubs Take a Gamble on Austin Gomber in Search for Pitching Stability
As the Chicago Cubs grapple with a pitching staff strained by injuries, they are turning to a familiar strategy: finding value in unexpected places. With Justin Steele sidelined for much of the season, and both Jameson Taillon and Michael Soroka also out, the pressure mounts on Colin Rea and Matthew Boyd to step up behind Shota Imanaga and Cade Horton. The Cubs’ playoff aspirations now rest heavily on the hope that Taillon and Soroka can return to form. Unfortunately, any new additions from waiver claims or minor league signings will not be eligible for the postseason roster.
A New Hope: Signing Austin Gomber
In a bid to bolster their pitching depth, the Cubs have signed left-hander Austin Gomber to a minor league deal. The 31-year-old was released by the Colorado Rockies on August 22 after a five-year stint that yielded a lackluster 5.31 ERA across 125 appearances, including 109 starts. Despite the Rockies’ decision to part ways with Gomber—who still had $6.35 million left on his contract—the Cubs saw potential in the lefty, making the move to secure him just before the August 31 cutoff.
Gomber wasted no time making an impression. In his debut for the Iowa Cubs on September 2, he delivered a stellar performance, pitching five scoreless innings while allowing just two hits and striking out five batters. This display of dominance, particularly given Gomber’s history of struggling with strikeouts at the major league level, suggests he may still possess the talent necessary to contribute meaningfully.
The Challenge Ahead: Revamping Gomber’s Game
The Cubs are known for their innovative approach to pitching development, with a track record of transforming under-the-radar prospects into impactful players. If they can successfully revamp Gomber’s game, it could serve as a significant achievement for the organization. His time in Colorado raised questions about his ability to be a reliable major league starter. While the notorious conditions of Coors Field may have contributed to his struggles, Gomber’s 5.18 ERA at home was alarmingly close to his 4.97 ERA on the road.
The road ahead for Gomber is unclear. His history of low strikeout rates poses a considerable hurdle, and it remains to be seen if he can adapt at this stage of his career. However, if the Cubs can refine his pitch selection and diminish the hard contact against him, Gomber could emerge as a viable option for the team in the future.
Given that he was signed prior to the August 31 deadline, Gomber is eligible for the Cubs’ postseason roster, contingent upon his performance in the coming weeks. The organization is undoubtedly eager to see if this buy-low signing can turn into a significant asset as they push for a playoff run.
The Cubs have made their move; now, the spotlight is on Gomber to prove he can rise to the occasion.
