After initial reports on Thursday that they were front-runners for starting pitcher Cole Hamels, the Chicago Cubs have now reportedly agreed to a deal with the Texas Rangers to land the All-Star pitcher.
Cole Hamels to the Cubs is done, pending medicals, sources tell Yahoo Sports.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 27, 2018
For Chicago, they are likely hoping for far greater from the 34-year-old than his current numbers. In 20 starts, he recorded a 4.72 ERA and 1.37 WHIP.
However, Chicago could look at a move away from Texas as a major turning point for the veteran. In 10 starts outside of Globe Life Park in Arlington this season with a 2.93 ERA and .222 batting average. It could provide a reason for hope, especially with the belief that being thrust into a playoff race could inject a little more energy into Hamels on the mound.
He brings plenty of postseason experience to the table. He has made 16 starts in the playoffs and recorded a 3.48 ERA with a 1.09 WHIP in those appearances.
Hamels has a $20M team option for the 2019 season, but Chicago will likely exercise the $6 million opt-out clause.
According to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports, Texas will send a significant amount of cash to help offset some of the money remaining on Hamels’ contract.
The return going to Texas is not known at this time though it will be prospects from Chicago’s minor-league system.