The Chicago Cubs are reportedly close to signing former Pirates catcher Jason Jaramillo. The deal is apparently a minor league, presumably with a Spring Training invite according to the site MLB Trade Rumors. Jaramillo became available after the Bucs signed starting pitcher Erik Bedard.
↵With Geovany Soto the current starter, Jaramillo isn't expected to take that job for the Cubs if he makes the major league roster. He could serve as Soto's backup, though. Koyie Hill filled that role last season in Chicago, but hit only .194 with two home runs, appearing in 46 games. In five seasons with the Cubs, Hill is batting only .208 and the team is clearly looking for an upgrade there.
↵Jaramillo is not only a (very) slight upgrade offensively, but he's also a few years younger than Hill. Jaramillo is only a career .235 hitter, but his average was .326 last season in limited action with the Pirates. In 53 minor league games, he also hit .263 with two homers.
↵For more on the Bucs, check out SB Nation's Pirates blog, Bucs Dugout.