The Cubs pursuit of free agent closer Craig Kimbrel is real. Ken Rosenthal first reported Saturday that the Cubs were showing interest in the right-hander and then said they were making a hard push for Kimbrel on Wednesday.
There are no more penalties or loss of a draft pick attached to signing Kimbrel, plus the Cubs may not be paying Ben Zobrist, as he's been on the restricted list since early May. That has apparently given the front office even more financial flexibility to go out and sign Kimbrel.
Several teams are reportedly in on the closer, but according to MLB insider Jon Morosi the Braves are out.
Morosi then went on 670 The Score on Wednesday and said the Cubs are the front runners to sign Kimbrel.
Kimbrel wants at least a second year guaranteed on any deal he signs. Morosi also said that the closer could be ready within 7-10 days.
Kimbrel hasn't pitched since last October and although he's been throwing to stay in shape that timetable seems a bit optimistic.
So, as of now, the Cubs are definitely in the mix for Kimbrel and are seen as the favorites to sign him. We'll see.
Stay tuned.
