Cubs' Daniel Palencia trade has aged better than anyone expected

The Chicago Cubs acquired Daniel Palencia 4 years ago, erstwhile nary 1 was judge what he mightiness be.

These days, Palencia is 1 of nan astir overpowering closers successful each of baseball.

But successful 2021, he was a young imaginable coming to Chicago pinch different prospect, outfielder Greg Deichmann, successful speech for Andrew Chafin. The Cubs sent nan mustachioed left-hander to nan Oakland A's.

Imagine an Athletics bullpen correct now pinch Palencia successful nan eighth and Mason Miller successful nan ninth.

Instead, nan Cubs are nan beneficiaries.

The 25-year-old righty's stats this play are ridiculous.

Palencia has thrown 33.1 innings and struck retired 38 batters. He has a 1.62 ERA.

MORE: Mariners' switch-pitcher shows disconnected some arms astatine Futures Game

It's been rather nan coming of age. Palencia sounded successful nan fields nan past 2 seasons but had a mixed 5.02 ERA.

Palencia has lowered his locomotion numbers successful a large measurement this season, and he is besides allowing less hits. All successful all, he's conscionable much dominant.

The Cubs are surely happy they sewage him successful that speculative waste and acquisition 4 years ago.

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