Cubs News: Jed Hoyer finds new gamble, Former slugger signs historic deal, Clay Holmes

The Chicago Cubs are expected swim in the deep waters of free agency this offseason, hoping to land a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher. The Cubs are among the teams expected to pursue Tarik Skubal, and while that likely is true for Michael King and Freddy Peralta as well, it also should be expected that Jed Hoyer will find a gamble or two for the pitching staff.

Hoyer found his latest gamble over the weekend, and it's continuing an experiment that started this past season with the Iowa Cubs. The Cubs have signed Gabe Klobosits to a minor-league deal.

Cubs' first offseason move brings back Gabe Klobosits on a minor-league deal

Klobosits made 27 appearances with the I-Cubs last sumner, posting an ERA of 3.51. He struck out nearly 27% of the hitters he face, but there is still work needed with his command. He walked over 13% of the hitters he faced. With some more adjustments, it's possible that Klobosits could become a project for the bullpen in 2027. Important note there, Klobosits is not on the Cubs' 40-man roster, so they would be permitted to communicate with him this offseason, assuming there's a work stoppage in effect on December 2.

Former Cubs slugger Franmil Reyes signs historic deal with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters

Former Chicago Cubs designated hitter Franmil Reyes has become the highest-paid player in NPB history. The Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters have signed Reyes to a four-year deal worth $40 million. He's become a power sensation in Japan, hitting 89 home runs over his last three years overseas.

Reyes was a mystery during his time in the majors. He flashed tremendous power, including two 30+ home-run seasons between 2019 and 2021, but the power disappeared from his profile after that. He had a stop with the Cubs in 2022, hitting .234/.301/.389 with five home runs in 193 plate appearances.

Clay Holmes still not recognized as a free agent, despite previous reporting of his option being declined

News broke on Thursday that Clay Holmes turned down his $12 million player option, becoming a free agent. But, if you look at the Cubs transaction log over the weekend and press releases from the MLBPA, there's been no mention of Holmes officially becoming a free agent.

It's entirely possible that the paperwork was slowed down, and this a procedural matter of circumstance. But, it's also possible the Cubs and Holmes are trying work out an extension that includes him picking up his player option for the 2027 season. Either way, we should have resolution on this conspiracy by the end of the day on Monday.

UPDATE: The MLBPA issued a press release Monday afternoon, and Holmes has indeed declined his player option and is now a free agent.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow