Brett Davis - USA Today Sports
Brett Davis - USA Today Sports

Cubs sign former All-Star reliever


by - Senior Editor -

The Chicago Cubs made a big move on Thursday by signing free-agent reliever Brad Brach for a one-year contract worth roughly $4.3 million pending a physical. The deal includes a mutual option for the 2020 season that could make it a two-year deal worth around $9.5 million according to the Athletic.

Brach had a 3.59 ERA with 12 saves and 60 strikeouts across 69 appearances (62.2 innings) last season splitting time with the Orioles and Braves. Against righties, batters hit .243 while lefties raked at a .330 clip.

In the final months with the Braves in 2018, he had a sparkling 1.52 ERA with a 21.2 percent strikeout rate and 8.7 percent walk rate in 27 appearances. He only allowed runs in six appearances with Atlanta.

The veteran reliever will provide some much-needed depth for the Cubs and has some closer experience if needed as he had 18 saves in 2017. He will more than likely being used in a similar mold as Steve Cishek and Pedro Strop by Maddon.

He was an All-Star performer for the Orioles back in 2016. For his career, he has a 3.08 ERA and 1.28 WHIP through eight MLB seasons. He will turn 33 in April.

The Cubs' 40 man roster is now full with this bullpen addition.

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