Chicago Cubs made a big move Thursday night, acquiring veteran lefty Cole Hamels from the Texas Rangers, according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation.

Chicago desperately needed to add a starting pitcher as the club seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the postseason. Yu Darvish, signed to six-year, $126 million deal in the offseason, has only made nine starts this season. Tyler Chatwood was another winter addition – for $38 million – and has a 4.84 ERA in 18 starts, with 85 walks – 37 more than any other NL starter.

Hamels, 34, is having the worst season of his career – 5-9 with a 4.72 ERA in 20 starts – but has plenty of playoff experience. In 16 career postseason starts, 13 of them with the Phillies, he has a 3.48 ERA.

Hamels was the MVP of the 2008 NLCS and World Series with the Philadelphia Phillies. This should help extend the 34 year old’s career. Great move all around.