Love Letters From Pronk: Zach Davies
Love Letters From Pronk is an ongoing series where Pronk shares his love for somebody connected to the Cubs. Sometimes funny, sometimes weird, Pronk likes to make 100% sure people know that they are loved, and best expresses that through gushing letters. Today's pick: Cubs pitcher Zach Davies
Zach Davies is new to the Cubs this year. Coming over in the shocking Yu Darvish trade, the pressure was instantly on, as it would be for anyone traded for a Cy Young caliber pitcher. Davies has solid career numbers, but has been a bit uneven so far this year. I don't reserve my love for the top performers. I give it to the struggling types as well. Just as doctors reach out to sick people to help them get better, I will be reaching out to Zach to encourage him and get back to what he's capable of.
Dear Zach,
I am glad you are a Chicago Cub. I loved Yu Darvish, and was sad to see him go. While it was easy to pigeonhole you into his shadow, that's not fair to you. After all, Yu Darvish had a 3.60 ERA in a Cubs uniform. the last two years, you are at 3.30.
I have no doubt in my mind you can be successful. There have been a few bumps the last few starts, and it has the meatball fans clamoring. Your hits per 9 are 4 more than average, and your walks per 9 is currently double what your career norm has been. It's a spike, but I suspect you'll get back to what you do best and things will normalize. The Cubs have turned a lot of pitchers around over the years. If they can work with Kyle Hendricks to turn his soft tossing into ace level pitching, they will work for you as well. Sometimes the adjustments can take a little time, and that's okay. You'll get there.
Chicago can be a demanding place, full of fickle fans. Cubs fans can also easily be won over. Once the corner gets turned from this rough April, most fans will forget the blowups, and celebrate your success. Chin up Zach, you'll get there soon enough!
XOXO
-Pronk