Dec. 07--The Chicago Cubs continue to stockpile relievers that could create a surplus and help their chances to trade for a starting pitcher.
The Cubs and Trevor Cahill have agreed to terms on a one-year, $4.25 million contract. After struggling with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Atlanta Braves over the past 1 1/2 season, Cahill resurrected his career with the Cubs in September, posting a 2.12 ERA in 11 appearances while striking out 22 and walking only five in 17 innings while regaining effectiveness of his sinker.
Cahill, 27, is expected to be used as a reliever but could be stretched out to start and give the Cubs insurance in their rotation. Cahill started his career as an All-Star starter with the Oakland Athletics before he was traded to the Diamondbacks, but he was 3-12 with a 5.61 ERA in 2014 and was dealt to the Braves, who released him after he had a 7.52 ERA in 15 starts in 2015.
The Cubs signed Cahill as a minor league free agent in August, but Cahill pitched well enough after his promotion to be part of their post-season roster.
The agreement will become offiicial once Cahill passes a physical examination.
The agreement means that five relievers have joined the Cubs by trade, free-agent signings or waiver claims in the past three weeks.
Cahill's signing was first reported by Buster Olney of ESPN.
