Coghlan gets Minors deal, spring invite with Cubs
Former Rookie of the Year non-tendered by Marlins after injury-plagued season
Chris Coghlan, the 2009 National League Rookie of the Year Award winner, has signed a Minor League contract with the Cubs that includes a Spring Training invitation.
According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, Coghlan will make $800,000 if he makes the Major League roster. The left-handed-hitting outfielder/third baseman can earn another $250,000 in incentives.
A supplemental first-round pick by the Marlins in 2006, Coghlan emerged in 2009, batting .321 with a .390 on-base percentage. But after his stellar rookie season, the 28-year-old has dealt with a number of injuries.
With Miami last year, Coghlan appeared in 70 games and batted .256 with a .318 on-base percentage. He was placed on the 15-day disabled list June 9 with right calf irritation, and he also was bothered by a back issue.
A converted infielder, Coghlan has spent most of his MLB career in the outfield, where he can play all three positions. He saw limited action (eight games) in 2013 at third base.
The Marlins non-tendered Coghlan on Dec. 2, making him a free agent.
Coghlan is a career .270 hitter with a .337 on-base and a .390 slugging percentage.