If we add in the guaranteed MLB deals the Cubs have inked this week to those they had agreed to since the start of free agency, they’ve signed precisely…zero guaranteed deals. No offense to Hernán Pérez or [searches site to come up with another name] Ryan Tepera, they just haven’t added any impact talent. Not all hope is lost, however, as they’re said to be pursuing KBO castoff Carlos Asuaje.
By all accounts, the Cubs aren’t going to add significant money to payroll unless and until they first subtract, which means trading away at least one player to whom they have a sizable salary obligation.