Cubs cheap out on MLB Draft deals, but it’s actually working

The Chicago Cubs are getting some of their top MLB Draft picks to sign very cheaply.

While one could argue that the Chicago Cubs are being especially cheap when it comes to signing some of their most recent draft picks, well, they are still getting top college and high school players to sign on the dotted line.

Chicago was able to get fourth-round pick in outfielder Christian Franklin to sign his deal $39,500 under his draft slot. While the Cubs are still paying him $425,000, sixth-round pick in left-handed pitcher Riley Martin got an incredibly raw deal. He signed for a measly $1,000, which is a whopping $262,700 under his draft slot. Who says staying in school is the best course of action?

Martin is a senior and therefore, has no leverage whatsoever, but man, what a farce this is…

Chicago Cubs are being so cheap when it comes to signing their draft picks

With the Cubs already punting on the 2021 MLB season, they are dead-set on commencing their rebuild. This requires replenishing their farm system by any means necessary, whether that is trading away marquee stars on expiring deals for contending teams’ farm hands or getting every player under the sun you drafted to put pen to paper to join the professional baseball organization.

While players sign deals under slot all the time, it has to break your heart to see a guy like Martin sign for less than a stimulus check. The only upside here is to say you and Baseball Hall of Famers like Ernie Banks and Ron Santo signed with the Cubs for the same amount. Inflation be damned, but you will never forget signing your first baseball contract, even it is for pennies on the dollar.

No doubt about it, the Cubs are being super aggressive when it comes to getting players signed.