Cubs reportedly sign free agent pitcher Edwin Escobar

Cubs reportedly sign free agent pitcher Edwin Escobar originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

The Chicago Cubs have reportedly secured their first offseason signing by adding pitcher Edwin Escobar to their roster.

The news was first reported by Luis Enrique Morales in Venezuela, where Escobar is currently playing in the Winter Leagues. Additionally, the deal was confirmed by various platforms in Japan, where Escobar spent the last six seasons:

Escobar, a former Top-100 prospect, last appeared in the major leagues in 2016 with the Arizona Diamondbacks, participating in 25 games and recording a 7.23 ERA.

He has spent the past seven seasons pitching in Japan, with the last six being with the Yokohama Bay Stars.

In a total of 58 appearances across Japanese and Venezuelan Winter Leagues, Escobar has achieved a 4-2 record with a 3.33 ERA, striking out 46 batters in 51.1 innings.

According to a note from Bleacher Nation, Escobar has also been a teammate of pitcher Shota Imanaga, who is anticipated to join the majors in 2024 and has been linked to the Cubs in free agency speculations.

The specifics of Escobar’s contract remain unclear, but it is probable that he will have the chance to compete for a spot in the Cubs’ bullpen during spring training.

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