The Padres have agreed to a one-year deal for $1.75 million with right-hander Trevor Cahill.
Cahill, who turns 29 in March, posted a 2.74 ERA in 50 relief appearances (65 2/3 innings) for the Cubs last season, striking out 66 and walking 35. He did not pitch in the postseason as the Cubs won their first World Series title since 1908.
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Cahill is a Southern California native, having attended Vista High School, which is less than an hour north of San Diego. He will compete for a spot in what looks to be a wide-open starting rotation, with a relief role as a backup option.
Of Cahill's 262 Major League appearances over eight seasons, 174 have been starts, though he only started four games over the last two seasons. Cahill's career ERA as a starter is 4.14, and as a reliever, 3.24.
In order to make room for Cahill on the 40-man roster, San Diego designated outfielder Jabari Blash for assignment. The 27-year-old made his big league debut for the Padres last season, and in 84 plate appearances hit .169/.298/.324 with three home runs and five RBIs.
The Padres would like to hold onto Blash, and he could compete for an outfield spot on the roster should he clear waivers.