Reports: Cubs sign free agent reliever Brach

The Chicago Cubs have signed free agent reliever Brad Brach, according to multiple reports Thursday. ESPN said the deal was for one year at $3 million, a bargain for a former All-Star with a career 3.08 ERA.

The 32-year-old right-hander split last season with the Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves, posting a combined 2-4 record with a 3.59 ERA, 12 saves and 60 strikeouts in 62 2/3 innings. Brach made the All-Star team with the Orioles in 2016, finishing 10-4 with a 2.05 ERA in 71 relief appearances. The following season, he set a career high with 18 saves for Baltimore.

Brach spent three seasons with the San Diego Padres (2011-13) before joining the Orioles in 2014. Strengthening the bullpen was a priority this offseason for the Cubs, who lost Jesse Chavez to the Texas Rangers in free agency. Closer Brandon Morrow could miss the start of the season following elbow surgery.

--Field Level Media