Cubs Sign Xavier Nady

Today, the Cubs have found their fourth outfielder in Xavier Nady. The Cubs and Nady have agreed on terms to a one year contract worth $3.3 Million. Nady could also receive an additional $2 million in incentives tied to how many games he plays in.

Nady, 31, is coming off his second career tommy john surgery, which forced him to miss all of 2009. When healthy Nady is a .280 to .300 hitter, with 20 home run power. He will likely see most of his time as the starter against left handed pitchers as a right fielder.  He also could see time in left field as a starter, due to the fact that Alfonso Soriano has missed 125 games the last three seasons.

Nady is said to be ready for spring training, and his rehab is going great. He is consistently throwing the ball more than 150 feet, with no trouble. He is expected to take a physical some time this week, which if all reports are true he should be able to pass it.

The signing also eliminates another “big” signing for the Cubs, as they are close to having no more money to spend. However they still are looking to improve their bullpen via trade. And it appears that a deal with San Diego for Luke Gregerson is the most realistic scenario.