Chicago, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - The Chicago Cubs officially added their possible closer for the upcoming season, with the club announcing Friday that is has agreed to a one-year contract with reliever Jose Veras.
The deal also includes a team option for the 2015 season.
ESPN Deportes previously reported that Veras will earn $4 million next season and $5.5 million in 2015 if the Cubs pick up the option year.
Veras recorded a career-high 21 saves in 2013, 19 of which came with the Houston Astros. The veteran righty was traded to the Detroit Tigers in late July and compiled a 3.02 earned run average over 67 appearances between the two teams.
Over eight major league campaigns, Veras owns a 19-22 record with a 3.84 ERA in 394 games while striking out 388 batters in 377 innings.
Veras is expected to compete with holdover Pedro Strop for the closer's job in Chicago. Kevin Gregg, who saved 33 games in that role for the Cubs last season, is a free agent that the team has shown no inclination of re-signing.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.