Cubs sign LHP Riley Martin from Iowa

Sentiment Analysis

The Cubs' signing of LHP Riley Martin from Iowa earns a B+ CVI, representing a pragmatic if uninspiring response to their mounting rotation crisis. With Cade Horton sidelined and the organization's starting pitching depth exposed, this move reads more like organizational triage than a vote of confidence in their farm system. Martin's promotion signals the front office is scrambling to patch holes while they hunt for legitimate veteran alternatives, and the fanbase clearly sees this as exactly what it is — a placeholder solution. While B+ might seem generous for what amounts to an emergency depth signing, the Cubs at least moved quickly to address an immediate need rather than letting their rotation bleed out completely. The real test comes in how aggressively they pursue established starters, because Martin's role should be providing short-term innings, not anchoring a playoff push.