Cubs close one deal, reportedly close on another
The Cubs appear ready to head to spring training, but they've tied up a few last-minute details and still are being talked about in the trade and international free-agent markets.
Their biggest order of business was avoiding salary arbitration with ace starting pitcher Matt Garza, agreeing on a one-year deal worth $9.5 million with performance-based incentives.
The Cubs had offered $7.95 million while Garza was seeking $12.5 million. Cooler heads prevailed in the end.
The Cubs also were reported to have agreed to terms with Cuban left-hander Gerardo Concepcion on a multiyear deal worth at least $7 million. Team officials did not comment at week's end.
It appeared a deal was well on its way to being completed, pending a physical exam and the completion of necessary paperwork.
Concepcion is only 19, and he might be at least a year away from the major leagues, but the Cubs have looked at him extensively, and they like his upside.
The Cubs also have been mentioned as one of the bidders for Cuban outfielder Yoenis Cespedes. The club appeared much farther down the road with Concepcion, but Cespedes has been on their radar for the entire offseason.
The Cubs also invited 22 players to spring training as non-roster invitees. Top prospect Brett Jackson, a center fielder, heads the list of young players. Infielder Bobby Scales, who made his major league debut with the Cubs in 2009 after 11 years in the minors, is back after finishing last year in Japan.
Pitchers and catchers report to Mesa, Ariz., on Feb 18 and work out for the first time the next day. Position players are due Feb. 23, working out formally for the first time Feb. 24.
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