The Chicago Cubs have offered right-hander Jeff Samardzija a five-year contract extension, according to a report from the Chicago Sun-Times.
Although no figures were disclosed, a source tells Cubs beat writer Gordon Wittenmyer the offer is believed to be higher than the $60-million to $65-million range previously on the table.
Samardzija, 30, is said to be seeking a deal comparable to the $17.5 million average annual value of Cincinnati Reds right-hander Homer Bailey's six-year deal, especially if he's not granted a no-trade clause, writes Wittenmyer.
Also noted in the report is a peak behind the curtains at the challenges the Cubs face in extending their top pitcher:
The sides have been miles apart for more nearly two years since having initial conversations about a multiyear extension, with differences on issues ranging from dollars to the club’s competitive timeline to management style and stability.
The Cubs right-hander leads the team in ERA, innings and quality starts this season after punching out 214 batters in 213 2/3 innings in 2013. As a result, Samardzija has been the subject of trade rumors dating back to last season.
Samardzija, who is arbitration-eligible next year before becoming a free agent in 2015, has been linked in trade talks involving several teams, including Toronto, Baltimore, San Francisco and Atlanta.