Cubbies Crib: Morning Marquee 12/18

The Chicago Cubs signed free-agent reliever Jose Veras to a one-year, $4 million deal. This move completes the Cubs’ bullpen for 2014 that includes Justin Grimm, Blake Parker, Hector Rondon, James Russell, Pedro Strop, Carlos Villanueva and newcomer Wesley Wright, among others. Prospect Arodys Vizcaino and Japanese pitcher Kuyji Fujikawa are rehabbing from injuries and are expected back in 2014 as well.

The New York Yankees also signed reliever Matt Thornton and Grant Belfour signed with the Baltimore Orioles.

Chicago Tribune: Jose Veras agrees to 1-year, $ million deal to close for Cubs

CSN Chicago: Closing time: Cubs reach agreement with Jose Veras

ESPN Chicago: Veras just a small piece for Cubs

ESPN MLB: Masahiro Tanaka eyes MLB

SI Strikezone: New posting system for Japanese players favors players, MLB teams

ESPN LA: Masahiro Tanaka drama is worth tracking for Dodgers

FOX Sports: Rosenthal & Morosi Hot Stove: Closer Balfour, Orioles close to deal

ESPN New York: Source: Yanks, Brian Roberts agree

NBC Sports: The Rays demanded the world from Cleveland for David Price

Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Braves agree to one-year deal with Floyd

CBS Sports: Yankees agree to sign free agent reliever Matt Thornton

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