Report: Cubs 'kicking the tires' on James Shields

The Chicago Cubs are "kicking the tires" on free agent pitcher James Shields. Shields will reportedly make a decision about which team he will join by the end of the week.

The Chicago Cubs are "kicking the tires" on free agent pitcher James Shields, according to a report from David Kaplan of Comcast SportsNet.

Shields will reportedly make a decision about which team he will join by the end of the week.

After helping the Kansas City Royals reach the World series in 2014, Shields rejected the team's one-year, $15.3 million qualifying offer.

Shields, 33, posted a 3.21 ERA with 180 strikeouts and 44 walks over 227 innings during the the 2014 regular season.

The Cubs went 73-89 and finished in last place in the National League Central this season. 

In December, the Cubs signed free-agent pitcher Jon Lester to a six year, $155 million contract.

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