Chicago Cubs Decline $7.5 Million Contract Option for Colin Rea

The Chicago Cubs have officially declined their $7.5 million contract option for pitcher Colin Rea for the upcoming season, according to league sources. The decision makes the veteran right-hander available on the open market as teams begin shaping their pitching staffs for the next campaign. Rea spent the previous season providing valuable depth for the Cubs organization before the club elected to pass on the team option.