MESA, Ariz. – The reunion between the Cubs and Jake Arrieta was a late-developing one, but even early in camp, it’s clear that everyone involved is happy with their longtime ace’s return.
Arrieta had options during free agency, and after putting everything on the table, the decision to return to the Cubs became a no-brainer.
“It took a little while to develop and materialize, but [I] had several conversations with [president Jed Hoyer] and other people in the organization. [Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy], [bullpen coach Chris Young], Dave Ross, and some of the players and it just felt like the right fit.
“I felt comfortable and confident that we were going to get a deal done. This is where I wanted to be. And just the past few days here, it just feels right. It feels like yesterday, and sometimes we might take time for granted a little bit too much. But the last three years have gone by pretty quickly and just really excited to be with this group.”
Trevor Williams meeting his new teammates in unique way
Right-hander Trevor Williams is still getting acclimated with his new club, but unlike a normal year where he could see faces without masks and get facial expressions, Williams is still trying to introduce himself safely in a COVID world.
“It is interesting. I’ve gotten really good at the eyeball smile,” Williams said with a laugh. “I’ve gotten really good at the eyeball, squint smile. But it is an interesting dynamic, because I felt like a new kid at school for the first time, but I didn’t have the ability to stand in front of the class and introduce myself and shake everybody’s hand, so we’re taking it as it is right now.
“I think once we get the last names on our jersey, once we start putting uniforms on, I think it’ll be a little bit easier. But everybody has been good.”
Winter weather having an early impact on Cubs camp
You don’t need to tell anyone in Chicago the recent stretch of weather has been rough, but last week’s winter storm that affected most of the country has impacted the arrival schedule of several Cubs this spring. Outfielder Ian Happ told 670 The Score that his travel plans had been affected by the recent storm.
“We actually have a couple of guys [affected]. Jim Adduci is not here yet,” Ross said. “He lives in Texas and he texted me the other day. ... I think he’s supposed to be here tomorrow. Some guys [dealing with] weather, some guys health, some guys testing. All those things have come into play with the coaching staff included. It’s some crazy things going on in our world.”
