Kipnis, who turns 33 in April, played his first nine MLB seasons with the Indians. He has a .261 batting average, 123 home runs, 529 RBIs and a .750 OPS in his career. Kipnis posted a slash line of .245/.304/.410 with 17 home runs, 65 RBIs and a .715 OPS over 121 games and 511 plate appearances for Cleveland in 2019.
The minor league deal will provide Kipnis an invitation to spring training and give him a shot to win a roster spot. The Cubs have some uncertainty at second base, where 22-year-old Nico Hoerner projects as the long-term answer but may not be ready for the full-time job yet.
A native of north suburban Northbrook and product of Glenbrook North High School, Kipnis grew up a Cubs fan.
The Cubs have yet to officially confirm the move.