MLB Rumors: Craig Kimbrel, Cubs Agree To Multi-Year Deal Pending Physical

The Craig Kimbrel sweepstakes reportedly is over.

The former Boston Red Sox closer hasn’t played in a Major League Baseball game this season, likely due to the reported high demands of the contract he was seeking.

But now it appears he’s heading to the National League, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal.

BREAKING: #Cubs in agreement with free-agent closer Craig Kimbrel, pending physical, sources tell The Athletic.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) June 6, 2019

Multi-year deal for Kimbrel with #Cubs, source tells The Athletic.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) June 6, 2019

According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, the deal is worth $43 million across three years.

Kimbrel to Cubs, 43M 3 years

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) June 6, 2019

ESPN’s Jeff Passan revealed the terms and a full breakdown of Kimbrel’s new reported deal:

Craig Kimbrel's deal with the Chicago Cubs is for three years and $43 million and includes a fourth-year option, sources tell ESPN. He'll receive $10 million this season and $16 million in 2020 and 2021. There is a $1 million buyout on a club/vesting option for the fourth year.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) June 6, 2019

Just to be clear: The $43 million in Craig Kimbrel's deal is fully guaranteed. The $10 million he'll receive this season is not prorated. He will get $16 million in 2020 and 2021, and the extra $1 million is guaranteed via the buyout on a fourth-year option.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) June 6, 2019

Kimbrel declined Boston’s qualifying offer after winning the World Series with the team in October, making him a free agent. He’s been linked to several teams since the season began.

He certainly will provide a boost to the Cubs bullpen with his career 1.91 ERA, 333 saves and 868 strikeouts.