Craig Kimbrel Is Back, But Will He Be The Cubs Closer?

Well, the Cubs are getting Craig Kimbrel back just in time for the final 10 games of the regular season that includes seven against the Cardinals.

Kimbrel last pitched on Sept. 1, and was placed on the injured list with an elbow issue. His recovery was slower than first expected, but after a couple bullpen sessions and a simulated game earlier this week Kimbrel is back.

Since he's been sidelined, the Cubs' bullpen has not only survived, but as a whole it's been the best bullpen in baseball this month.

And it's not that I don't trust Kimbrel, but you just don't know how he's going to pitch coming back from whatever was wrong in his elbow. This isn't hyperbole, or being dramatic, but at this point I have more confidence in Rowan Wick closing out games than Kimbrel coming back from his arm injury.

But my feelings don't matter.

However, earlier on Thursday, Cubs' GM Jed Hoyer was on 670 The Score and when discussing Kimbrel, he wasn't sure if the right-hander would immediately come back to the closer role upon his return.

In 29 appearances this season, Wick has a 2.53 ERA and 1.06 WHIP, with 34 strikeouts and 14 walks in 32 innings. Wick hasn't allowed a home run with the Cubs and is holding opponents to a .175 batting average, while pitching in high leverage situations.

I don't know, with Brandon Kintzler still out, maybe ease Kimbrel back by pitching him earlier in games? Even though, he's been a disaster in non-save situations this year.

The Cubs need as many relievers as possible with the majority of the rotation struggling right now, so no matter what, Kimbrel's return is more than welcomed.