Whatever role he winds up in, Givens wants to deliver out of Cubs bullpen

MESA, Ariz. - Mychal Givens and Steven Brault spent some time Thursday morning catching up on old times.

The were both drafted by Baltimore and were teammates in 2014 at high Class A Frederick in the Orioles' system.

Their career paths went in different directions, so they had a lot to talk about after reuniting at Cubs camp.

"Guys around the game talk about your delivery, how nasty it is," Brault told Givens.

Givens smiled, aware that he's made more than a few major-league hitters uncomfortable with his slingshot throwing style while pitching in relief for the Orioles, Rockies and Reds for the past seven years.

Now, the 31-year-old righty will try continuing the trend out of the Cubs' bullpen this season.

Givens signed a one-year contract worth a rweported $5 million on Wednesday. Incentives could boost the deal to $6.5 million.

"It's a great opportunity," Givens said. "With the long time period waiting through the lockout and now to be settled with a team, I'm just ready to play. I'm excited."

A shortstop when he was drafted by Baltimore in the second round in 2009, Givens didn't hit much and switched to pitching four years later.

It turned out to be the right decision.

In 360 career relief appearances with the Orioles, Rockies and Reds, the 6-foot, 230-pounder is 25-20 with a 3.41 ERA, 29 saves and 466 strikeouts over 396.1 innings.

With Cincinnati last year, Givens had 8 saves while going 1-1 with a 4.22 ERA.

Cubs manager David Ross said it's too early to name a closer and he might go with a committee, at least in the early part of the season.

Given his track record, Givens is definitely a strong candidate to get the ball in the ninth inning at some point.

"Right now, just be ready to pitch," Givens said. "We'll have discussions and I'm just ready for any position (Ross) puts me in. Every year, I'm expected to get outs and help our team be in the best position to win a ballgame. That's my job.

"Whatever position they put me in, I need to do a great job at it. And have fun, that's the most important thing. It's a childhood game, have fun and get outs."

Givens expects to have a lot of fun pitching at Wrigley Field on a regular basis this season.

He used to watch Cubs games back home in Tampa, Fla., with his great-grandfather and now has the chance to call it home.

"I can't wait to see the fans and enjoy it," Givens said.

Givens is close friends with Kyle Schwarber and the two work out together in the offseason. Schwarber played for the Cubs from 2015-20 and gave Givens a scouting report before he signed the one-year deal.

"He had a great time here," Givens said. "He's my workout buddy and he's talked highly about this organization for many, many years."