Fri Jan 10 20:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Cubs Sign Reliever Michael Rea to One-Year, $5 Million Deal
**Chicago, IL** – The Chicago Cubs have added to their pitching staff, agreeing to a one-year, $5 million contract with right-handed reliever Michael Rea, according to ESPN. The deal includes a club option for 2026.
Rea, whose $5.5 million club option was declined by the Milwaukee Brewers in November, will ultimately earn slightly more than he would have under that option thanks to a $1 million buyout. While Rea posted a 4.29 ERA and 1.26 WHIP in 2024, a strong performance through August (3.70 ERA) was followed by a less impressive September.
With the Cubs already boasting a strong starting rotation, Rea is expected to initially fill a long relief role.
First Piper 