Report: Cubs sign free-agent pitcher Drew Smyly

Smyly is back with the Cubs (Jason Getz - USA Today Sports)

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Saturday, March 19 2022

The Chicago Cubs have agreed to a one-year deal worth $5.25 million with an additional $2.5 million with pitcher Drew Smyly according to multiple reports on Saturday.

In 2021, he had an 11-4 record with a 4.48 ERA over 23 starts and six relief appearances with the Atlanta Braves. He struck out 117 batters and walked 41.

Smyly signed a two-year deal with the Cubs in 2017 but never pitched with them as he rehabbed from Tommy John surgery throughout the contract.

The 34-year-old will likely fit in the rotation after the injury to youngster Adbert Alzolay.

If he doesn't make the top five in the rotation, he certainly will be a valuable swingman or reliever for the ballclub.