Jake Arrieta and the Cubs had discussions in the off-season about a long term deal before the two sides agreed on a $10.7 million contract to avoid arbitration for this season. Arrieta and Theo Epstein addressed those talks during Spring Training. Both Epstein and Arrieta acknowledged there were conversations about a long term contract.
Early in Spring Training reports indicated the Cubs and Arrieta were far apart, in terms of years, on a contract extension. Arrieta indicated he wanted to stay with the Cubs but for longer than the front office had in mind.