CHICAGO, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- The Chicago Cubs tried Tuesday to improve their beleaguered bullpen by signing All-Star lefthander Mike Remlinger to a three-year contract.
ESPN Radio 1000 reported Monday that the deal is worth $10.5 million.
It is the first major signing for new Cubs General Manager Jim Hendry.
Remlinger, 36, excelled as a setup man for the Atlanta Braves last season, posting a 7-3 record and 1.99 ERA in 73 appearances. In 68 innings, he allowed only 48 hits and 28 walks with 69 strikeouts.
In Chicago, Remlinger could assume the Cubs' closer role as Antonio Alfonseca struggled last season. Alfonseca had just nine saves, posting a 2-5 record with a 4.00 ERA.
Remlinger, who is joining his fifth team, has posted a 44-41 career record with 16 saves and a 3.80 ERA.
