Ryan Rolison, a talented left-handed pitcher, was a first-round pick in the 2018 draft by the Colorado Rockies. Despite his potential, he struggled to find his rhythm until he joined the Chicago Cubs. In his first season with the Cubs, Rolison has shown significant improvement. Last year, with the Rockies, he had a challenging rookie season with a 7.02 ERA over 31 games. This year, with the Cubs, he has earned a 2.89 ERA in 52 appearances, marking a significant turnaround.
‘It’s been a dream come true to play for the Cubs and be a crucial part of the bullpen,’ Rolison said. ‘Closing the game against the Brewers was something I never imagined. I’m proud of myself and grateful to the organization for believing in me.’
Manager Craig Counsell recalls the excitement among the Cubs’ coaching staff when they first saw Rolison in spring training. ‘We knew we had something special,’ Counsell stated. He credits Rolison’s health for his success and notes that this talented pitcher was finally ready to address past challenges.
“There are two factors: we had the answers, and he was ready to listen,” Counsell mentioned.
The Cubs claimed Rolison off waivers from the White Sox in January. They laid out a clear vision for his role, encouraging Rolison to embrace change. ‘After last year, I knew I needed adjustments,’ Rolison acknowledged. ‘I was hungry to prove myself.’ He credits the Cubs for allowing him to pitch with confidence, focus on a simplified approach, and refine his pitch arsenal with new pitches like the sinker and sweeper.
Rolison’s statistical improvements have not only bolstered his confidence but also provided Counsell with a reliable option in high-pressure situations. ‘I’m confident in my ability to execute,’ Rolison explained. He values the insights from the Cubs’ pitching team, which emphasize keeping his pitches within the strike zone to capitalize on their effectiveness compared to the league.
As the Cubs push for a playoff spot, Rolison remains eager to contribute. Fans have supported the team all year, and Rolison is eager to experience the playoff atmosphere at Wrigley Field. ‘Playing in October would be a dream,’ Rolison admitted. The team’s performance over the remaining weeks will determine if Rolison gets that opportunity.