Cubs finalize deal with South Korean Chang-Yong Lim– MLB News
Chicago Cubs will have a strenuous but seemingly rewarding offseason.
While on Tuesday, December 18, reports of the Cubs’ being in pursuit of pitcher Edwin Jackson made rounds, the Cubs have also finalized the agreement with the South Korean reliever Chang-Yong Lim. According to the details that have trickled in, it is a two-year,
split contract.
What is interesting to note is that the finalized agreement is much different in what was earlier being reported. For instance, when the reports surfaced initially, it was suggested that the deal was worth $5 million.
However, Cubs source – who spoke to Chicago Tribune, said that Lim has signed for $100,000. The reliever will receive minor league salaries for two seasons. That said, the reliever is not placed on the 40-man roster as well.
Currently recovering from Tommy John surgery – that he had to undergo last July, the 36-year old reliever has been among the best in his contemporaries and peers in Asia. With years of experience and exposure, he seems a good choice for the Cubs.
He has been pitching not only for South Korea’s Samsung Lions – wherein he has pitched for nine years, but also for Japan’s Yakult Swallows.
Also, most importantly, he was a key player in helping the team win the Bronze medal at 2000 Olympics and a silver medal at the 2009 World Baseball Classic for South Korea.
Coming to Cubs will be an altogether different experience for this South Korean closer, having been a proven winner in his baseball career.
"I felt I would never get another opportunity to pitch in the U.S. after this," Lim told reporters at Incheon International Airport. "It seems a little late at my age (36), but I am happy that I am getting the chance to experience American baseball. I hope
I can adjust well to the majors."
With the finalization of deal, the Cubs have apparently had a good offseason as far as this move is concerned. A team in the building phase will certainly require players of such calibre to strengthen it in a league that is known for its fierce competitiveness.
Tags: