Cubs make deals with Valbuena, Lillibridge, McDonald

Share

In one month, pitchers and catchers will report to the Cubs complex in Arizona. Whether the front office has another big move in themor will spend the rest of the winter searching for complementary piecesthe Mesa picture is coming into focus.
Infielder Luis Valbuena avoided arbitration on Thursday and agreed to a one-year, 930,000 deal. The Cubs also confirmed their list of 16 non-roster players who have so far signed minor-league contracts with invites to big-league camp, including ex-White Sox utility guy Brent Lillibridge, former Boston Red Sox outfielder Darnell McDonald and Oak Lawn native Brian Bogusevic.
The Cubs have stockpiled pitchers with those deals: Andrew Carpenter; Jaye Chapman; Dayan Diaz; Jensen Lewis; Blake Parker; Zach Putnam; and Cory Wade.
Hisanori Takahashiwho went 4-3 with a 3.44 ERA in 61 relief appearances for the Los Angeles Angels in 2011could emerge as a left-handed option for the Cubs bullpen.
The Cubs have also reached agreements with catcher J.C. Boscan, outfielder Johermyn Chavez, first basemanoutfielder Brad Nelson, and infielders Alberto Gonzalez and Edwin Maysonet.
The Cubs have not yet finalized their complete list of non-roster invitees, which should include some minor-league players already in the system. Left-hander Dontrelle Willisthe National Leagues 2003 Rookie of the Yearrecently signed a minor-league contract that does not include an invite to major-league camp.

Contact Us