Cubs, Wood agree to $3.9 million contract

The Cubs eliminated the need Friday for one arbitration hearing by agreeing to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with left-handed pitcher Travis Wood.

The two sides about split the difference. The Cubs were offering $3.5 million while Wood was seeking $4.25 million.

Wood, who turns 24 on Feb. 6, was the Cubs’ most effective starting pitcher last season. He reached 200 innings for the first time and went 9-12 with a 3.11 ERA and a WHIP of 1.15 for a team that went 66-96. In his 200 innings, he walked 66 and struck out 144.

The Cubs have signed five of their eight arbitration-eligible players. The biggest remaining situation is with pitcher Jeff Samardzija, who is seeking $6.2 million while the Cubs are offering $4.4 million.

Second baseman Darwin Barney is looking for $2.8 million while the Cubs are offering $1.8 million. Newly acquired outfielder Justin Ruggiano seeks $2.45 million, and the Cubs’ offer is at $1.6 million.

You’re all invited:The Cubs have invited 24 players to big-league spring training as nonroster players. Included are top prospects Albert Almora (who played for the Kane County Cougars last year), Javier Baez and Kris Bryant. Also among prospects coming to big-league camp are pitcher Eric Jokisch, a product of Northwestern, and Kyle Hendricks, the organization#146;s minor league pitcher of the year in 2013. Park Ridge native Brian Schlitter, a reliever who has pitched for the Cubs at the big-league level, is among the invitees, along with outfielder Casper Wells, who spent part of 2013 with the White Sox. Other notable veterans are outfielder Chris Coghlan, the 2009 Rookie of the Year with the Marlins, outfielder Ryan Kalish and infielder Ryan Roberts. Ÿ Follow Bruce on Twitter@BruceMiles2112.