The Cleveland Guardians made Alex Cobb their only pitching acquisition ahead of this week’s trade deadline.
Cobb, however, is 36 years old and coming off shoulder and hip issues, not to mention a recent blister.
He hasn’t pitched at all this year while rehabbing, which is why his trade value was low.
The Guardians pounced, as they were willing to wait out his rehab and it shouldn’t be much longer.
In fact, activation could be imminent considering that he had a rock-solid outing this weekend for Triple-A Columbus.
“#Guardians RHP Alex Cobb struck out five Syracuse batters today allowing just one run over 4.2 innings of work in his rehab start for Columbus. Cobb topped out at 94.9 mph. Line – 4.2(IP) 3H 1R 1ER 2BB 5SO (69 Pitches 44 Strikes),” Guardians Prospective tweeted.
#Guardians RHP Alex Cobb struckout five Syracuse batters today allowing just one run over 4.2 inningsof work in his rehab start for Columbus. Cobb topped out at 94.9 mph.
Line – 4.2(IP) 3H 1R 1ER 2BB 5SO (69 Pitches 44 Strikes)#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/T0GASQvIax
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) August 3, 2024
It was a positive night for the veteran right-hander.
Results-wise, he delivered a good performance with just one run conceded in 4.2 frames.
Workload-wise, he is very close to where the Guardians need him to be.
Velocity-wise, he is already touching the mid-90s, which is close to his ideal velocity.
In other words, Cleveland could consider activating him from the injured list should they need him this upcoming week.
He is just about ready.
When healthy, Cobb could contribute a steady veteran presence in the rotation.
His 3.85 career ERA is exactly what the staff needs, but it remains to be seen if he will immediately return to being that pitcher upon coming back.
If Cobb returns to top form eventually, this team could be very dangerous in the postseason.
NEXT: Guardians Star Reliever Cements Cy Young Case With Spectacular Month
