Morning Marquee: Cubs sign corner outfielder Mike Baxter

The Chicago Cubs signed veteran outfielder Mike Baxter to a minor league deal Saturday, shoring up the ranks in the outfield – although it appears likely he will open the season with Triple-A Iowa. The team has several options at the big league level heading into Spring Training, including Arismendy Alcantara, Jorge Soler, Dexter Fowler and Chris Coghlan – all of whom appear poised to earn a roster spot.

Los Angeles Dodgers starter Zack Greinke has not yet decided if he will opt out of his contract at the conclusion of the 2015 season, according to reports. The right-hander would quickly join a large contingency of pitchers seeking large deals heading into next season should he choose to opt out.

The Tampa Bay Ray signed Ronald Belisario to a minor-league deal this weekend, after a deal between the right-hander and the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly fell through earlier this week. Belisario posted a 3.54 FIP last season, which gives Rays fans more cause for optimism than his 5.56 earned run average.

After winning the American League East in 2014, Baltimore Orioles manager Buck Showalter told reporters this weekend that the club has the flexibility to make signings during the season – which could ultimately prove crucial in a division that features the revamped and reloaded Boston Red Sox and the increasingly competitive Toronto Blue Jays.

Here’s the latest from around the world of Major League Baseball:

“Mike Baxter inks minor league deal with the Cubs” – Cubbies Crib

“Showalter has positive take on Duquette situation” – CSN Baltimore

“Greinke not sold on Dodgers’ winter makeover” – Los Angeles Times

“PECOTA shows Cubs will miss playoffs in ’15” – Cubbies Crib

“Freeman excited for road ahead for Braves” – MLB.com