Cubs close to signing Bob Howry

ESPNChicago.com is reporting that the Cubs are close to signing reliever Bob Howry, who was recently released by the Diamondbacks last week. Howry, a former Cub, would only cost the Cubs the major league minimum, on a pro-rated deal. 

Adding Howry to the Cubs fold will take some pressure off of other relievers who have been overworked early on this season. It also allows the Cubs to keep some of their younger arms in the minors, even though they will likely see time in the majors at some point this season.

In 127 career appearances in Wrigley Field, Howry owns a 4.16 ERA and a 1.23 WHIP. His best year with the Cubs came in 2006 when he appeared in 84 games and posted a 3.17 ERA and struck out 71 to just 17 strike outs.