Chicago Cubs: Team active as they sign Zobrist, trade Castro

In what seemed like a whirlwind of moves, the Chicago Cubs signed free agent Bez Zobrist to a four-year deal, then traded Starlin Castro to the New York Yankees.

Whether you’re a fan of Starlin Castro’s or not, seeing him in something other than a Chicago Cubs uniform will be strange. After coming up to the Cubs at such a young age, we’ve watched his entire career–for better or worse. Now with the Cubs landing Ben Zobrist, a guy they’ve had their eye on for a while, Castro became expendable. The Yankees were a perfect landing spot with an opening at second while also willing to take on Castro’s entire deal.

In turn, the Cubs get Adam Warren, a young pitcher who could get a chance to start or work as a hybrid type guy out of the bullpen. They also received a player to be named later, which was quickly reported to be Brendan Ryan. The Cubs still may chase after another starter, and still need to address their need in center field.

The Cubs inked Zobrist to a four-year deal, which was a little surprising due to his age. But his ability to play all over the field fits well with Joe Maddon, and the two have a history from their time in Tampa Bay. And Zobrist is fresh off a World Series win so he has the experience of that as well.

Shortly after the Castro trade became official, the Braves sent Shelby Miller to the Arizona Diamondback for their top pick from last season. It could be assumed the Cubs were still in the running until that point for Miller’s services, but would be hard pressed to believe the Cubs would have given up a No. 1 pick for him.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs sign Ben Zobrist to four-year deal’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs trade Castro to the Yankees for two players’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Braves trade Miller and get an insane return’ – Tomahawk Take

‘Cubs sign Zobrist, trade Castro; Is Heyward next?’ – Cubbies Crib

#Cubs on Social Media

#Cubs Theo on 2 deals: "We couldn't have made this free agent signing without this trade, and wouldn't have made trade without the signing"
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) December 9, 2015

#Cubs swoop in late and land Ben Zobrist for 4 x $14M, as @KenRosenthal and others have reported. First big position player off board.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) December 9, 2015

Okay, I'm heading to bed. Happy thoughts of Zobrist on the team, sad ones for Castro leaving & hopeful ones of Heyward. Dream big #Cubs fans
— World Series Dreaming (@WSDreaming_Cubs) December 9, 2015

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In what seemed like a whirlwind of moves, the Chicago Cubs signed free agent Bez Zobrist to a four-year deal, then traded Starlin Castro to the New York Yankees.

#Cubs on Social Media

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