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There may be a thaw in the free-agent freeze.
The Chicago Cubs have reached an agreement with pitcher Yu Darvish. USA TODAY Sports has learned the two sides have come to terms on on a six-year, $126 million contract, according to a source with knowledge of the deal who was not authorized to comment publicly.
The agreement between Darvish and the Cubs was first reported by The Athletic.
After making 31 starts last season for the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Dodgers, Darvish was the most prized pitcher in this offseason's free agent market.
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He went a combined 10-12 with a 3.86 ERA during the regular season, but won starts in the National League division series and championship series as the Dodgers won the NL pennant.
In the World Series, however, he was roughed up in both of his starts against the Houston Astros (8 earned runs in 3 1/3 innings) and he took the loss in the decisive Game 7.
The Dodgers were among the teams pursuing Darvish. However, he chose the Cubs -- who will slot him into the rotation spot created when right-hander Jake Arrieta became a free agent.
Contributing: Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY Sports