Report: 'Little indication of progress' between Lester, Cubs

Has Jon Lester played in his final game for the Cubs? Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports

Report: 'Little indication of progress' toward reunion between Jon Lester, Cubs

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 12/29/20

Jon Lester may have tossed his final game for the Chicago Cubs.

According to Robert Murray of FanSided, "there has been little indication of progress" toward a reunion between Lester and the Cubs, indicating that the left-hander might sign elsewhere for the 2021 season and beyond.

Jon Lester made it clear to Tom Ricketts, Jed Hoyer and Theo Epstein at the beginning of the offseason that he wants to return to Chicago to win his 200th game for the Cubs. So far, there has been little indication of progress toward a reunion.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) December 29, 2020

Earlier this offseason, Lester bought beers for fans at four Chicago bars as a way to thank them for their support over the years. He is often considered one of the best free-agent signings Chicago has ever had. He signed a six-year, $155 million deal with the Cubs before the 2015 season, leaving money on the table.

Chicago turned down the $25 million option on Lester's contract in October, though he still could return on a deal worth less money. He has stated in the past that he wants to win his 200th game as a member of the Cubs, but it's now up to Chicago's management to get him under contract for 2021.

In six seasons with the Cubs, Lester has compiled a 77-44 record with a 3.64 ERA and 1.248 WHIP in over 1,000 innings pitched. Before signing with the Cubs, Lester spent eight-and-a-half seasons with the Boston Red Sox and a half-season with the Oakland Athletics. He's a three-time World Series champion and five-time All-Star.

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