Lost in the news of Anthony Rizzo’s 2020 option being picked up Sunday was this news about other Cubs contract options:
The Cubs also declined options on right-handers Brandon Morrow, Tony Barnette and Kendall Graveman, a source confirmed to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. Morrow’s option was for $12 million, and he will receive a $3 million buyout. Barnett and Graveman both had options for $3 million. The Associated Press earlier reported news on the declined options.
A source told ESPN on Monday that the Cubs have also declined the option on reliever David Phelps, who would have been paid $5 million based on making more than 40 appearances in 2019.