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Sources: Cubs bringing back pitcher Hammel

Pitcher Jason Hammel was one of the more popular players in the Cubs' clubhouse for the first half of last season, before he was traded in a Fourth of July blockbuster.

Now, Hammel appears headed back to Wrigley Field.

Reports say, and sources confirm, that the Cubs and the 32-year-old right-hander have agreed on a two-year contract worth $18 million, with a possible club option for a third year. There is a $2 million buyout if the Cubs don't exercise the option, making the deal worth a guaranteed $20 million.

The Cubs have not commented on the reports as Hammel must take a physical exam.

Hammel signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Cubs last February and then went on to become one of the team's more pleasant surprises. In 17 starts, he went 8-5 with a 2.98 ERA and was a positive clubhouse presence.

Late on July 4, Hammel and ace pitcher Jeff Samardzija were sent to the Oakland Athletics in a trade that brought the Cubs shortstop prospect Addison Russell along with pitcher Dan Straily and outfield prospect Billy McKinney. The deal was announced on July 5.

With Oakland, Hammel went 2-6 with a 4.26 ERA in 13 games, 12 starts. For his career, he has a record of 59-70 with a 4.60 ERA. In addition to the Cubs and A's, he has pitched for Tampa Bay, Colorado and Baltimore.

The Cubs and Hammel parted on good terms, and because he was a free agent this off-season, a return to Chicago seemed possible, if the two sides could agree on a deal.

Hammel could fill in nicely behind Jake Arrieta and Kyle Hendricks in a rotation that also includes Travis Wood, Edwin Jackson and Tsuyoshi Wada, at this early date.

The Cubs also are in the mix for free-agent lefty Jon Lester, who may command upward of $140 in a multiyear deal from some team. The Giants and Red Sox appear to be the Cubs' top rivals for landing Lester.

• Follow Bruce on Twitter @BruceMiles2112

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