Cubs Rumors: Matt Garza, Ryan Dempster and Alfonso Soriano

The Chicago Cubs will surely consider a deal for right-handed starting pitcher Matt Garza considering they receive substantive return, reports Ken Davidoff of the New York Post. Garza is one of the top starters expected to be available this summer and has already been tied to the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers.

Davidoff names the Cubs as one of his top five most interesting teams in Major League Baseball during this trade season. He notes that veterans Ryan Dempster and Alfonso Soriano also figure to be available, though Garza may be Chicago’s most interesting player this summer.

While the Cubs have said they are going to leave their options open regarding Garza open, it has been reported that the 28-year-old will be available this summer.

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported earlier this week that Garza is in play, while Jayson Stark of ESPN hearsteams will have to overwhelm the Cubs if they are to move him. Buster Olney has reported Chicago would be willing to trade Garza for "the right offer."

Garza is making $9.5 million this season and is arbitration eligible once more before he can reach free agency following the 2013 season.

Over his 12 starts, Garza has maintained an ERA and WHIP of 4.04 and 1.121 with 8.3 SO/9 and 2.6 BB/9. He owns a career 3.85 ERA and 1.290 WHIP over his seven seasons in the bigs.