Couldn't Afford Strop, Kimbrel's Debut And More Cubs Notes

The Cubs played the Reds on Wednesday and although Nick Castellanos wasn't in the lineup the Cubs did get to face an old friend in Pedro Strop.

Yeah, it was pretty weird to see Strop in a Reds uniform.

After 6.5 years with the Cubs Strop hit free agency this past offseason and he ended up signing a one-year deal worth a guaranteed $1.8 million. He can make up to $3.3 million with incentives and although the Cubs tried to get him back, Strop says there just wasn't room in their budget.

Yikes.

Tylet Chatwood pitched three innings and struck out five, while giving up a solo home run. He looked good, but as a reminder spring training can be deceiving.

Chatwood is expected to begin the season as the team's fifth starter.

Cubs closer Craig Kimbrel made his spring training debut. He recorded two strikeouts and gave up a solo home run. Most importantly, Kimbrel was hitting 95-96mph on his fastball.

Here's Kimbrel talking about his outing, saying it's a good sign that he was at 95-96 in his first spring training game. Oh and Kris Bryant!

A few more things from today's game, STOP HITTING THE CUBS!

Die-hard Cubs fan right here.

Finally, a lovely memory from the 2019 season against the Reds.