After coming out on top in Suzuki sweepstakes, Cubs announce more signings

GLENDALE, Ariz. - It seems like every day has been signing day for the Cubs since the lockout ended on March 10.

Agreeing to a five-year, $85 million contract Friday that also cost the Cubs a $14.6 million posting fee, Japanese right fielder Seiya Suzuki is far and away the biggest addition to date.

On Saturday, the Cubs officially signed three more players - infielder Jonathan Villar and left-handed pitchers Drew Smyly and Daniel Norris.

After agreeing a one-year contract worth a reported $4.5 million, Villar is expected to compete with another newcomer, Andrelton Simmons, for playing time at shortstop.

The deal also includes a $10 million mutual option for 2023 with a $1.5 million buyout.

The 30-year-old Villar has played a lot of second and third base over his nine-year career with the Astros, Brewers, Orioles, Marlins, Blue Jays and Mets, and he has also appeared in center and left field.

Manager David Ross appreciates versatile players, even more so this year.

"Rest is important over 162 (games), especially in this season with a shortened spring training," Ross said. "We're going to be the best version of us if we keep everybody healthy. As things play out and guys are having their seasons and who fits where, I think all those things will become really clear. But flexibility is always nice."

In 142 games with the Mets last season, Villar hit .249/.322/.416 with 18 home runs and 42 RBI.

Smyly reportedly signed a one-year deal for $5.25 million with $2.5 million in incentives.

After signing a two-year contract with the Cubs before the 2018 season, Smyly never pitched while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Now, he'll have a decent chance to start for the Cubs this year. In 29 games (23 starts) for the World Series champion Braves in 2021, the 32-year-old Smyly was 11-4 with a 4.48 ERA.

Norris has played eight seasons with the Blue Jays, Tigers and Brewers, splitting time as a starter and reliever.

Playing for Detroit and Milwaukee last year, the 28-year-old Norris was 2-3 with a 6.16 ERA in 56 games out of the bullpen.

Easing in:

After signing with the Cubs on Friday and taking batting practice, new right fielder Seiya Suzuki was back on the practice field Saturday.

Considering he hasn't played in a game for over five months, the Cubs are not going to rush Suzuki into Cactus League play.

"I want him to make sure he gets his feet under him," manager David Ross told reporters. "We'll get him in there as soon as we can."