(670 The Score) It's official: Star closer Craig Kimbrel has signed with the Cubs.
Kimbrel passed his physical, and the team announced his signing in an introductory press conference Friday morning. Kimbrel, 31, inked a three-year deal worth $43 million, according to the Athletic. The contract also includes a club and vesting option for the 2022 season, the Cubs said without divulging specifics.
"We both wanted this to happen, and that's why I'm here," Kimbrel said.
Kimbrel didn't give a timeline as to when he could be ready for game action after going unsigned over the offseason, but Cubs manager Joe Maddon on Thursday indicated it could be around a three-week window. Kimbrel will throw a bullpen Saturday, then head to the Cubs' complex in Arizona for a "condensed spring training" of sorts, president of baseball operations Theo Epstein said.
He will then embark on a rehab assignment in the minor leagues after his work in Arizona, Epstein said. He will be optioned to Triple-A Iowa for procedural purposes.
Kimbrel hasn't pitched since last Oct. 27, when the Red Sox beat the Dodgers in Game 4 of the World Series. He has been working out and training every day, he said.
"I've been doing my best to stay ready," he said.
Kimbrel posted a 2.74 ERA and 0.99 WHIP and converted 42 of 47 save chances for the champion Red Sox in 2018. He also struggled in the playoffs with a 5.91 ERA in nine appearances.
He has a career 1.96 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. His 333 career saves are more than any active MLB reliever.
