The Chicago Cubs and free agent pitcher Kerry Wood are closing in on a one-year contract that includes an option for the 2013 season, according to Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports. Wood would presumably return to fill his role as the set-up man to closer Carlos Marmol, who could use some help with Sean Marshall's departure.
Wood, 34, has spent essentially his entire career in a Cubs uniform. He pitched 51 innings for Chicago last season, posting a 3.35 ERA with 57 strikeouts. Even at his advancing age, he still sits in the mid-90's with his fastball and can reach a bit higher than that occasionally.
The Philadelphia Phillies are another team that's been tied to Wood, but the general assumption has been that the Cubs are the favorites to sign him. Wood gave the Cubs a hometown discount to return to Chicago last year, and while he's said that he wants a raise, it's likely the kind of money that the Cubs can afford.
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