Starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija avoided arbitration with the Chicago Cubs, agreeing on a $5.345 million salary for the 2014 season, according to a report.
The two sides compromised after Samardzija filed for $6.2 million and the Cubs countered with a $4.4 million offer. Samardzija will be eligible for arbitration again after next season and for free agency after the 2015 season.
The right-hander and the Cubs were unable to reach agreement on a contract extension in January, ESPN reported Saturday.
The 29-year-old Samardzija posted an 8-13 record with a 4.34 ERA in 33 starts last year. His career record in six seasons with the Cubs is 29-35 with a 4.22 ERA.
Agreements now have been reached with all four of the Cubs’ arbitration-eligible players during the off-season: Samardzija, left-hander Travis Wood, outfielder Justin Ruggiano and second baseman Darwin Barney.