Morning Marquee: James Shields signing solidifies 2015 draft

With the James Shields sweepstakes finally over, the impact the San Diego Padres’ signing of the right-hander has had ripple effects throughout Major League Baseball. Perhaps most importantly, the draft order for this June’s MLB Draft is now set, with San Diego giving up the 13th-overall pick in signing Shields.

According to reports, the Chicago Cubs’ offer to Shields was in the neighborhood of three years and $60 million – a far cry from the deal he ultimately landed with San Diego. However, many who cover the Cubs – including Cubbies Crib co-editor Nicholas Blazek – believe that the Cubs’ restraint will ultimately pay big dividends moving forward.

St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Jon Jay agreed to a two-year deal with the team, avoiding arbitration. Another National League Central team, the Cincinnati Reds, agreed to a two-year deal, as well, keeping ‘the Toddfather’ in Cincy for the immediate future. Last season for the Reds, Frazier struggled to get on-base in his sophomore campaign, but still gave 19 home runs and 73 RBI to the team’s offensive warchest.

The Padres have now turned their attention to international standout Yoan Moncada, per multiple reports. Adding Moncada would be the exclamation point on a recent stretch where first-year GM A.J. Preller has added Shields, Matt Kemp and Wil Myers, among others.

Here’s more:

“Reds, Frazier avoid arbitration with two-year deal” – Call to the Pen

“Cubs place seven on Baseball Prospectus’ top 101 list” – Cubbies Crib

“Padres rumors: Team sets sights on Moncada” – Friars on Base

“Red Sox to play exhibition game in Cuba?” – BoSox Injection

“Cubs’ non-signing of Shields is team’s best non-move” – Cubbies Crib

Next: Chicago Cubs: Five worst free agents deals in team history