CHICAGO -- A person familiar with the negotiations says outfielder Nate Schierholtz and the Chicago Cubs are closing in on a one-year, $2.25 million contract.
The person, speaking Wednesday on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been finalized, confirmed reports by several media outlets. Schierholtz can earn an additional $500,000 in performance bonuses.
"I'm so excited for the opportunity to play in Chicago," Schierholtz said in a text message to The Associated Press.
Schierholtz was traded from San Francisco to Philadelphia last season in the deal that sent Hunter Pence to the Giants at the July 31 non-waiver deadline. He batted .257 with six homers in 114 games overall this year and is a .270 career hitter in six seasons.
The Phillies declined to tender Schierholtz a 2013 contract offer before last Friday's deadline, making him a free agent.
