CUBS TAKE A FLIER ON P EDDIE BUTLER
The Chicago Cubs acquired pitcher Eddie Butler and international bonus slot three in 2016-17 from the Colorado Rockies for pitcher James Farris and international bonus slot one in 2016-17.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
Butler struggled in MLB last season to the tune of a 7.17 earned-run average in 17 appearances with the Rockies, but not so long ago he was considered a pretty good pitching prospect. The Cubs hope he can turn it around with a winning organization.
What does it give the Colorado Rockies
The prime motivation for the Rockies here was to get a better bonus slot for future international prospect signings, but Farris might also figure into the mix as a late-inning reliever down the road. He could be groomed as a future closer with Colorado.
Fantasy impact
Butler's fantasy stock should get a significant boost now that he is away from Coors Field, but there is a limit to his overall value. He is not a huge strikeout pitcher, so it would be best to take a wait-and-see approach in spring training before committing to him in keeper leagues. He has little value in non-keeper leagues at this time. As for Farris, he could have future value if he becomes Colorado's closer (but even that comes with significant risk).
