Chicago Cubs, Pedro Strop agree to one-year deal to avoid arbitration

The Chicago Cubs have once again avoided an arbitration hearing, as they’ve agreed with Pedro Strop, the last arbitration eligible player. The two agreed at $2,525,000, just a tinge above the midpoint of Strop’s $3 million and the $2 million the Cubs offered.

Strop has become a key piece in the Cubs bullpen after coming over from Baltimore with Jake Arrieta in the Steve Clevenger, Scott Feldman deal in July of 2013.

Last season he went 2-4 with a 2.21 ERA in 65 appearances, striking out 71 in 61 innings.

Strop has shined in the set-up role, with 21 holds, a statistic that is viewed differently in various circles. In his few save opportunities however, he did not fare as well. He saved two, while blowing four other opportunities.

Hector Rondon is likely to be the closer, should manager Joe Maddon choose to designate that title to him. Being a huge proponent of metrics, Maddon is likely to use a combination of Strop, Rondon, Neil Ramirez and former Cardinals closer Jason Motte in varying situations.

Last season, Strop made $1,325,000 for the Cubs. his numbers for his six major league seasons are 11-12 with a 3.41 ERA, with a career strikeout/9 of 9.5.

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