Two years ago, Grant Balfour was one of the most in-demand free agent closers in baseball and looked ready to cash in on his solid productivity.
He even went as far as to turn down lucrative offers, believing he was worth more. But then a failed physical changed his world and now the former fireman is without a job. That might not last, however, as the Chicago Cubs are rumored to be interested in Grant Balfour.
The 37-year-old of course has a great relationship with former manager Joe Maddon when they were together with the Tampa Bay Rays, which is no doubt playing a part in the interest (as is the Chicago Cubs poor middle relief).
Grant Balfour is one reliever on their radar as the Cubs look into reinforcements for their bullpen.
The Balfour connection is obvious since the Australian right-hander used to play for Cubs manager Joe Maddon. The Tampa Bay Rays officially released Balfour this week and will be responsible for what’s left of his $7 million salary this season.
Nobody really knows what type of juice Grant Balfour has left in the tank, though considering he’s likely to come very cheap, it’s probably worth the shot for the Chicago Cubs.
