Cubs’ Jason Hammel becoming a valuable trade chip (video)

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jason Hammel has pitched fairly well during his first four outings for the Lovable Losers North Side.

Hammel was able to help the Cubs avoid a three game sweep against the Milwaukee Brewers, ending a four game skid which dated back to April 23 after that blown safe opportunity by Pedro Strop.

That was a frustrating game to watch.

Hammel made his debut with the Cubs against the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 3 where he picked up his first victory of the season. His only loss in five outings came against the New York Yankees on the 16th but he’s pitched through seven innings in four out of five outings.

So far this season, the 31 year old righty has pitched through 34 and two-third innings, has given up 17 hits with eight of those being earned runs. Five of those 17 hits were taken deep but he’s reached 27 strikeouts.  He’s currently carrying a 4-1 record with a solid 2.08 ERA while holding opposing teams to a batting average of just .144 which is outstanding.

Now if Hammel is able to continue putting together solid outings just like he did today in Milwaukee, he’ll become a valuable trade piece for the Cubs once it’s time to pull a trigger on a deal. Last season the Cubs were thought to be getting rid of outfielder Nate Schierholtz and or catcher Dioner Navarro.

Both Schierholtz and Navarro put up career numbers with the Cubs and could have been perfect fits with any teams who were then competing.

There’s no way Chicago will pass up on a trade this year if someone steps up and makes an offer for Hammel. He’s proving to be quite the steal after signing a one year, six million dollar deal with the Cubs before the end of January.

Here’s a look at some highlight’s from Jason Hammel’s outing against the Milwaukee Brewers.