Chicago Cubs

Yu Darvish Won't Opt Out of Cubs' Contract, Reports Say

Darvish posted a 2.76 ERA and struck out 118 batters in the second half of the 2019 season

Chicago Cubs pitcher Yu Darvish has an opt-out on his contract for the 2020 season, and according to multiple reports, he’s just fine staying in the Windy City.

According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman and MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian, Darvish will not opt out of his contract and will remain with the Cubs for the remainder of the six-year deal he signed prior to the 2018 season.

Darvish got off to a rough start with the Cubs, but surged in the second half of the 2019 season, allowing opponents to hit .199 against him and striking out 118 batters in 13 starts. He had a 2.76 ERA in the second half of the regular season.

Darvish has four years and $81 million remaining on his contract with the Cubs, and while he had indicated he would stay with the team when asked about his opt-out late in the season, it’s even more apparent now that he plans to remain with the club for the long-term.

The pitcher signed a $126 million deal with the Cubs prior to the 2018 season, and the deal had one opt-out clause after the 2019 campaign. Darvish is set to make $22 million in each of the next two seasons, and will become a free agent after the 2023 season.

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