Feb. 19--In another effort to expand their bullpen options, the Cubs signed reliever Aaron Crow to a minor league contract.
Crow, 29, missed all of 2015 because of Tommy John surgery and might not be ready until mid-season. But Crow posted a 3.43 ERA in 254 relief appearances with the Kansas City Royals from 2011 to 2014.
Crow, a first round pick of the Royals in 2009, was traded to the Miami Marlins after the 2014 season but was diagnosed with a ligament tear before opening day.
In other Cubs news, President Theo Epstein was optimistic that an extension with owner Tom Ricketts would crystallize.
"We agree on the fundamentals," said Epstein, who is in the final year of a five-year, $18 million contract. "I want to be here, and I think he wants us here. It will take care of itself."
Manager Joe Maddon confirmed that some starting pitchers would make their spring training debuts later than normal to preserve their arms for the regular season after a lengthy postseason.
Maddon added that his lineups would remain "fluid" during spring training, with Ben Zobrist and Jason Heyward receiving time at the leadoff spot.
The contract of left-handed pitcher Luis Cruz was voided.
