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Morning Marquee: Former Cub Marlon Byrd dealt to Reds

By Jake Misener |

On New Year’s Eve, the Chicago Cubs made a depth move, signing veteran Chris Denorfia to a one-year, $2.5 million deal – giving manager Joe Maddon a solid platoon option in left field against southpaws. Chris Coghlan, the team’s primary left fielder last season, excels against righties, so Denorfia will likely see the lion’s share of his time when opposing teams have left-handers on the hill.

More from Cubbies Crib

Another veteran outfielder, former Cub Marlon Byrd, changed scenery on Wednesday, as well, as he was traded from the Philadelphia Phillies to the Cincinnati Reds. The Reds will also get some payroll assistance in the form of $4 million – roughly half of what Byrd is owed in 2015. Should he reach a certain number of plate appearances, his option for 2016 will vest at $8 million, as well.

The landing spot for the likes of Max Scherzer and James Shields remains very unclear as we begin the New Year. The Los Angeles Dodgers have the resources available to sign either arm, but reportedly have no plans of doing so, the New York Yankees are supposedly content with their internal options rotation-wise. The Cubs’ crosstown rival, the Chicago White Sox, are still seeking to trade Dayan Viciedo this offseason, in hopes of addressing some internal weaknesses – namely bullpen depth.

Here’s more from New Year’s Eve:

“Cubs sign outfielder Chris Denorfia to one-year deal” – Cubbies Crib

“Veteran outfielder Marlon Byrd traded to the Reds” – Call to the Pen

“Busy offseason leads to buzz for the White Sox” – MLB.com

“Kelley trade means more moves are in the works” – River Ave Blues

“Dodgers make Brett Anderson signing official” – Los Angeles Times

Next: Cubs sign outfielder Chris Denorfia to one-year deal

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