Semi-Relief: The Cubs and Matt Garza Have Avoided Arbitration

With a hearing looming (today), the Chicago Cubs and Matt Garza have agreed on a one-year deal for 2012. Garza will get $9.5 million, with the possibility of additional performance bonuses.

Garza, 28, in his third of four arbitration years, had requested $12.5 million for 2012, while the Cubs had offered $7.95 million. Given Garza’s lofty request, it’s no surprise the two sides settled below the midpoint. It’s still a win for Garza, whom most thought would get around $8.5 to $9 million for 2012. You have to wonder: who blinked at the last minute?

With the signing out of the way, the Cubs can now theoretically resume trade talks about Garza, presuming his price tag isn’t too lofty for interested teams. Otherwise, the Cubs might instead prefer to continue dialoging with Garza’s camp about a long-term extension.