CUBS BRING IN CUAS
The Chicago Cubs acquired pitcher Jose Cuas from the Kansas City Royals for outfielder Nelson Velazquez.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
The Cubs continue to add. This time, they get bullpen help from the Royals with Cuas. He has the kind of arm that gets front offices excited. With high strikeout potential (11.23 K/9 this season), Chicago hopes to turn him into a late-game pitcher. So far, Cuas has not been able to fully harness that ability. The Cubs could be the team to make it work, and they will have an electric arm pitching for them if it happens.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
Velazquez has made a few appearances in Major League Baseball the past couple of seasons, but has not been able to stick. In 13 games with the Cubs this year, he registered three home runs and six runs batted in. He has also flashed a strong hitting ability in Triple-A ball, so possibly a change of scenery is what is needed to jump-start his career. He will begin his Royals tenure at Triple-A Omaha.
Fantasy impact
Cuas will likely begin his Cubs career pitching in the middle innings, which limits his fantasy impact. With options remaining, he could even be sent to the minors at times. So, adding him to a fantasy team is not recommended at this time. As for Velazquez, starting in Triple-A ball all but eliminates his current value. He may see time with the Royals this season, but probably not enough to create any fantasy value.
