Craig Kimbrel’s extended layoff, long-term viability in 31 years old and this past year’s bad performance in the postseason with the Red Sox (5.91 ERA, 1.59 ERA in 10??2/3 innings more than nine appearances) were legitimate causes for concern and he hasn’t been consistent this season. He had two poor outings in July but followed up with eight scoreless appearances.
Although almost all of Kimbrel’s appearances are clean, he’s also given up three earned runs on three separate occasions, which clarifies his bloated 5.68 ERA in 19 innings over 21 appearances this season.
Control and keeping the ball in the park was problematic for him. Kimbrel has 11 walks and he has hit two batters in his 19 innings of work, surrendering six home runs (one shy of last year’s career-high seven home runs allowed).
If the Cubs need to move far in the postseason, then Kimbrel must return to form. His struggles are not indications of a decline.
Odds To Win The National League
(Courtesy of 5Dimes)
Los Angeles Dodgers -115
Atlanta Braves +398
Washington Nationals +800
St. Louis Cardinals +900
Chicago Cubs +1400
Philadelphia Phillies +2800
Arizona Diamondbacks +4000
Milwaukee Brewers +4750
New York Mets +5000
San Francisco Giants +35000
Cincinnati Reds +50000
San Diego Padres +150000
Colorado Rockies +200000
Pittsburgh Pirates +200000
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