Cubs Sign Justin Steele to One-Year Deal

The Chicago Cubs have successfully avoided arbitration with pitchers Justin Steele and Nate Pearson, finalizing contracts for the upcoming seasons. Steele, who had a productive 2024 season with a 3.07 ERA over 134.2 innings, will earn $6.55 million in 2025, while Pearson is set to make $1.35 million after a strong showing with a 2.73 ERA following his trade from the Toronto Blue Jays. Steele, who has two arbitration years remaining, has been a consistent performer for the Cubs since his MLB debut, while Pearson's performance has improved significantly since joining the team. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers have secured a one-year, $10.15 million deal with ace Tarik Skubal, the 2024 AL Cy Young Award winner, avoiding arbitration in his second year of eligibility. Skubal remains under team control until 2027, but with representation by agent Scott Boras, the Tigers may face challenges in negotiating a long-term contract. Both teams are looking to capitalize on the strengths of their pitching staff as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season.