Tampering Case Against Cubs Over Joe Maddon Hiring Still Open
(CBS) The tampering case against the Cubs stemming from the hiring of new manager Joe Maddon remains open, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred told ESPN on Friday.
"Over would not be the appropriate word to describe," Manfred said, according to ESPN. "There is an ongoing investigation. To the extent it's concluded, one way or another, we'll be transparent about that. We'll let you know."
Maddon signed a five-year, $25-million deal with the Cubs in early November after opting out of his contract with the Rays. Soon after, Tampa Bay claimed Chicago had tampered by enticing Maddon to leave his job with the Rays while he was still under contract.
The Cubs have vehemently denied the accusation.
"It's just wholly inaccurate," Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein has said previously.
Alan Nero, Maddon's agent, has also shot down the Rays' claim, saying Maddon would've stayed in Tampa Bay if the organization had offered him more money.
The Rays are insisting they have proof in the case, USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported.