Dallas Morning News · Nov 2, 2018
Rangers help Cubs keep Cole Hamels, take on a long-shot pitching candidate
The Texas Rangers worked out a way for the Chicago Cubs to pick up the option on left-hander Cole Hamels and add a long-shot pitching possibility.
The Cubs have picked up the option on Hamels for 2019 at a salary of $20 million. Had the Cubs declined the option, the Rangers would have been on the hook for the $6 million buyout.
To ease the Cubs' financial obligation, the Rangers agreed to a deal in which they will add left-hander Drew Smyly. He will earn $7 million in 2019.
Smyly, 29, has not pitched in the majors since 2016. He underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2017 while with Seattle.