Cubs Claim Former First-Round Pick Pitcher Off Waivers

Joining the Chicago Cubs.

The Cubs have claimed pitcher Anthony Kay off of waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays.

ROSTER MOVE:

🔹 LHP Anthony Kay has been claimed off waivers by the Cubs pic.twitter.com/p42sBOhYMe

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) December 23, 2022

Over the last four seasons, Kay recorded a poor 5.48 ERA in seven starts and 21 relief appearances for the Blue Jays. 

In the minors this past season, Kay compiled an underwhelming 5.48 ERA, 1.64 WHIP, and 23 strikeouts over 21.1 innings of work. In four starts and nine relief appearances, the twenty-seven-year-old held a 1-3 record.

Kay is a former first-round pick by the New York Mets in the 2016 MLB Draft.

With Kay having an option left, and his ability to throw in the mid-90s, the Cubs make a low-risk signing which they hope will pay off. Although it's unlikely that he makes it into the rotation, there's still potential for him to be an effective reliever moving forward.

Photo Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports