CHICAGO -- Led by center fielder Dexter Fowler, eight Chicago Cubs declared for free agency on Monday though pitcher Dan Haren has already stated he will retire.
In addition to Fowler, outfielders Chris Denorfia and Austin Jackson along with pitchers Trevor Cahill, Tommy Hunter, Jason Motte and Fernando Rodney will be available to sign with any team beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday. The Cubs have exclusive negotiating rights with the players until that time.
The team also has until Friday to extend a qualifying offer to any of the free agents which means if they leave for another team the Cubs would get an extra draft pick next summer.