Twins' Baker signs with Cubs

Cubs reach 1-year deal with former Twins RHP Baker

CHICAGO (AP) — Scott Baker wants to establish that he can still be an effective pitcher after having elbow surgery, and he’ll get his chance with the Chicago Cubs.

The 31-year-old righty agreed Tuesday to a one-year deal that guarantees him $5.5 million next season. He could earn an additional $1.5 million in performance bonuses.

“I have every intention of being a competitive pitcher next year right away,” he said.

Baker became a free agent after the Twins declined their $9.25 million option last month. With the Cubs, he gets a $150,000 bonus for reaching 145 innings and an additional $150,000 for every five innings he pitches after that up to 190.

Baker was 63-48 with a 4.15 ERA with Minnesota from 2005-11. He underwent Tommy John ligament replacement surgery April 17 and missed last season after being limited to 23 appearances (21 starts) in 2011, but he thinks he’ll be ready for the start of spring training.

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