The Chicago Cubs announced that they have released catcher George Kottaras and lost infielder Donnie Murphy to the Texas Rangers on waivers. The Cubs 40-man roster now stands at 38 players.
The Cubs acquired Kottaras on November 26th from the Kansas City Royals for cash considerations. Kottaras was recently designated by assignment by the Royals at the time. Now with Kottaras out of the mix for the backup role, Jon Baker has been named the backup catcher to Welington Castillo. Baker will also take one of the open spots on the 40-man roster. With the release of Kottaras, the Cubs will only be on hook for ¼ of his 1.075 contract.
In the other move, the Cubs infield became a lot clearer. The Texas Rangers acquired Murphy and his 825,000 (plus incentives) contract. The Rangers were recently reported to have scouted the Cubs infielders. The Cubs signed Murphy to a minor-league contract last season and proved his self to the Cubs after his midseason call-up last season. Last season, Murphy earned a 1-year deal from the Cubs this winter and playing time with the Rangers now. Infielder Emilio Bonifacio will take the last spot on the Cubs 40-man roster.
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