Theo Epstein and the Chicago Cubs seem primed to move right-handed starting pitcher Matt Garza, reports Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe. Several teams figure to be interested in Garza if he becomes available this summer, and the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles and Detroit Tigers have already been linked to the Cubs starter this season.
Cafardo notes that Epstein needs to get a pretty good bounty for Garza to help the Cubs rebuilding effort. While Garza continues to struggle controlling his emotions, Cafardo believes the 28-year-old would be a perfect piece for an American League East team.
Several AL East clubs have already been tied to Garza this season. The Yankees, Red Sox and Blue Jays have been connected to the 28-year-old for some time, while Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported this weekend that the Orioles scouted Garza last week.
Some expect Garza to be in play as the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline approaches, though the Cubs have said they’re considering signing him long-term.
So far this season, Garza has posted an ERA and WHIP of 4.04 and 1.121 with 8.3 SO/9 and 2.6 BB/9. Garza owns a career ERA and WHIP of 3.85 and 1.290 over his seven seasons in the bigs.