Lester has been a cornerstone for the Cubs (David Kohl - USA Today Sports)
Lester has been a cornerstone for the Cubs (David Kohl - USA Today Sports)

Cubs open on bringing Jon Lester back: "We're not ready to close that door"


by - Senior Editor -

The Chicago Cubs are in the midst of a transition offseason as the roster could look much different during the 2021 season.

One of the Cubs' most beloved players during the last six years has been veteran pitcher Jon Lester, who is now a free agent.

Lester had a 3-3 record with a 5.16 ERA in 12 starts last season.

Cubs President of Operations Jed Hoyer said to the media on Thursday that the ballclub hasn't completely closed the door with a possible reunion with 'Big Jon.'

“We’ve been very consistent in our communication with his representatives,” Hoyer said. “If things could work out, we’d love to have him back. I think we have to figure some things out first. Obviously, that kind of goes without saying, because otherwise something would be done by now. There are some things we want to work through first."

Hoyer added the following interesting comment.

“What he’s done for us is amazing, and certainly, we’re not ready to close that door.”

Both parties have an interest in another year, and it would make sense for Lester to return on a one-year deal if there isn't much demand on the free-agent market. As a back-end starter for the Cubs, he could be effective and also be the clubhouse leader for the ballclub as they continue their transformation in their rebuild process.

As a Cub, Lester posted a 77-44 record with a 3.64 ERA in 171 starts.

Comment on this story
Print   
Send Feedback to Tony Crumpton: Email | Comment
Post your comments!