Report: Cubs nearing deal with Uehara
The Chicago Cubs are reportedly nearing a deal with right-hander Koji Uehara, one source told Evan Drellich of the Boston Herald.
Drellich was confirming an earlier report from Japanese outlet Nikkan Sports, which said the deal is for one year and $4.5 million.
Uehara would represent the second high-profile addition to the Cubs' bullpen in as many days. They landed closer Wade Davis from the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday in exchange for outfielder Jorge Soler.
Despite his age - Uehara turns 42 in April - the veteran reliever remains one of the top bullpen arms in the majors. He posted a 2.19 ERA, 0.81 WHIP, and 291 strikeouts over four seasons in Boston, while also anchoring the bullpen during their 2013 World Series win.
After serving as the Red Sox closer for parts of three seasons, Uehara transitioned into a setup role in Boston in 2016 following the acquisition of Craig Kimbrel. Uehara's numbers took a bit of a dip, but he still managed to craft a 3.45 ERA and 0.96 WHIP with 63 strikeouts over 47 innings. Though he missed seven weeks with a pectoral strain in July and August, he returned to throw 11 scoreless innings to finish the season.
Uehara will likely slide into a setup role again with the Cubs alongside either Hector Rondon or Carl Edwards Jr.
The Miami Marlins, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Red Sox all reportedly expressed interest in Uehara this winter.