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Soriano isn't expected to join Cubs until after All-Star break

Brad Mills / USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

The Chicago Cubs signed reliever Rafael Soriano earlier this week, but they aren't likely to have his services for another month.

Manager Joe Maddon told reporters Thursday that Soriano likely won't join the Cubs until after the All-Star break. The right-hander is currently dealing with visa issues.

Soriano converted 32 saves for the Washington Nationals last season but went unsigned until the Cubs offered him a minor league contract on Tuesday. The 35-year-old can earn up to $4 million in bonuses for games finished this season.

While the Cubs wait on Soriano, it was reported that the team has had talks with the Philadelphia Phillies regarding closer Jonathan Papelbon, though it was noted that a deal was nowhere close to being done.

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