Chicago Cubs have low risk contract with Addison Russell
By David Hill
The Chicago Cubs agreed to a contract with Addison Russell, but it carries minimal risk for the team moving forward.
When the Chicago Cubs decided to tender Addison Russell a contract, it was a controversial decision. Although there was no questing the potential of the slick fielding shortstop, his suspension for domestic violence, and the subsequent details, made Russell a lightning rod for criticism. The Cubs, even though they had made that decision, essentially bought more time to see how Russell would behave, and to determine his future with the team.
On Friday, the Cubs and Russell agreed on a deal to avoid arbitration. Russell signed a one year deal worth $3.4 million, with another $600,000 in incentives based on how much time he spends on the active roster. It is a unique contract for an established major league player, as that type of incentive is typically reserved for those players riding the shuttle between the majors and AAA.
Addison Russell signs for $3.4 million with #Cubs and $600k with of bonuses if he’s on roster 150 days
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) January 11, 2019
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Yet, even with this contract, the Cubs are taking very little risk. Should Russell be unable to stay out of trouble, Chicago can let him go and only owe him 1/6 of the base salary. Essentially, it is a gamble of just over $566,000 for the defensive savant, barely more than a player would make on the league minimum.
It does remain to be seen as to whether or not the Cubs look to further address the position behind Russell. As it stands, Javier Baez is the only other player listed on the depth chart at short, although Ben Zobrist could potentially play there if needed. Daniel Descalso is the only major league signing thus far, but he has cost his teams 14 runs in 179 games at short. He is not an answer.
The Cubs are also in a bit of a financial crunch. it is thought that they have minimal money available to spend to upgrade the roster, a belief that has been furthered by their thus far quiet offseason. The Cubs may well be forced to stick with Russell, at least for this season, unless they can find a taker for his services. Yet, as proven considering the below market contract that he signed, they would be selling low on Russell.
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The Chicago Cubs have a minimal risk contract with Addison Russell. If he can stay out of trouble, he is signed at a bargain price. If not, then it will not be prohibitive for the Cubs to cut ties and move on.