Cubs reportedly sign Matt Murton to minor league deal

If there is one thing about Cubs fans that is almost undeniable, they are loyal. Once a player is a fan-favorite, they remain a favorite forever. Matt Murton fits that description, and now it seems Cubs fans will get another shot to celebrate the outfielder.

The Cubs have reportedly signed Murton to a minor league deal. Murton has played in Japan since leaving Major League Baseball after the 2009 season.

While in Japan, Murton broke Ichiro Suzuki’s season-hits record.

Murton played for the Cubs from the start of his big league career in 2005 until he was traded in 2008. Two of those seasons Murton was part of an outfield platoon, only used as a regular starter in 2006 when he hit .297 with 13 home runs.

With an already crowded outfield, Murton is seemingly a long-shot to make the Cubs’ opening day roster. For now, the Cubs have four regular outfielders plus Ben Zobrist and Kris Bryant who can play in a pinch.