Cubs Secure Free Agent Pitcher Edwin Escobar, Reports Confirm

The Chicago Cubs have made their first offseason signing, inking pitcher Edwin Escobar to a deal. The news was first reported by Luis Enrique Morales on Monday night in Venezuela, where Escobar is currently pitching in the Winter Leagues. Several outlets in Japan also reported the signing, as Escobar had pitched for the last six seasons in that country.

Escobar, a former Top-100 prospect, has spent the last seven seasons pitching in Japan and has a 4-2 record with a 3.33 ERA and struck out 46 batters in 51.1 innings of work. According to Bleacher Nation, he also has been a teammate of pitcher Shota Imanaga, who is expected to come to the big leagues in 2024 and has been repeatedly connected to the Cubs in free agency rumors.

It is unclear what type of contract Escobar signed, but he will likely come to spring training with an opportunity to compete for a spot in the Cubs’ bullpen. Click here to follow the Cubs Talk Podcast.