Motte, Cubs agree on one-year deal for 2015
CHICAGO -- The Cubs have yet to officially announce that they have signed Jason Motte to a one-year contract, but the pitcher confirmed that he has signed with the Cardinals' rival.
On Tuesday, Motte said goodbye to Cardinals fans via Twitter.
"Thank you Stl Cardinals and Cardinal Nation for the love the past day or so and the past 11 years. It has been an amazing ride. From the Cardinals taking a chance on a light hitting (ok, very light hitting) catcher, to turning me into a pitcher, to getting tackled after the last out! The friends and memories my family and I have made during our time in Stl, both on and off the field, will last a lifetime. For that you will always be a part of us.
"Though the uniform has changed, the Motte Foundation's mission is the same. We hope you will continue to support us in our effort to #KCancer.
"Thanks for everything
"The Motte's"
The pitcher also took time to say hello to Cubs fans:
"Thank you for the warm welcome. Thanks to the front office (Theo, Jed, all those that worked behind the scenes), and to my ACES family for making it happen. My family and I are excited about the new opportunities, on and off the field, to make an impact in this great city. See you in AZ in February!
"Oh yeah #GoCubsGo"
According to reports, Motte, 32, will receive $4.5 million from the Cubs, and the deal includes $2.5 million in performance bonuses. The right-hander has spent his entire career with the Cardinals, including 2012 when he saved a National League-leading 42 games. He has compiled a 3.03 ERA in 311 games over six seasons.
A converted catcher, Motte missed the 2013 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow in May that year. He appeared in 29 games with the Cardinals this past season, compiling a 4.68 ERA over 25 innings.
The addition of Motte will give manager Joe Maddon a much-needed veteran presence in the bullpen. Hector Rondon, 26, took over the Cubs closer duties last season, finishing with 29 saves in 33 opportunities.
The Cubs also completed two earlier trades. On Tuesday, Chicago announced infielder Marco Hernandez was headed to Boston as the player to be named later to complete the Felix Doubront trade. Hernandez, 22, batted .270 at Class A Daytona last season with 22 stolen bases.
The Cubs will receive cash considerations instead of a player from the Athletics to complete their July 4 trade. At the time of the deal, the Cubs sent Jeff Samardzija and Jason Hammel to Oakland for Dan Straily, Minor Leaguers Billy McKinney and Addison Russell plus a player to be named later.