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About six teams have been on the phone with Chicago Cubs general manager Theo Epstein consistently regarding right-hander Matt Garza, reports Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe. Cafardo notes the Atlanta Braves, Detroit Tigers, St. Louis Cardinals, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays and Kansas City Royals all have expressed interest in Garza. The 28-year-old was also tied to the New York Yankees earlier this month.
Cafardo adds that, as Epstein and the Cubs biggest trade chip, Garza will not be dealt unless Chicago receives a great package in return. The main concern surrounding Garza for interested teams is an uncertainty whether or not he can control his emotions.
Buster Olney of ESPN has reported that the Cubs are willing to trade Garza "for the right offer." According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, Chicago is leaving open the option of signing Garza long-term.
Over his 14 starts this season, Garza has maintained an ERA and WHIP of 4.06 and 1.091 with 8.4 SO/9 and 2.5 BB/9. Garza owns a career ERA and WHIP of 3.85 and 1.285 including his five seasons in the AL, three coming in the ultra-competitive East with the Rays.
Garza is earning $9.5 million this year and will be arbitration eligible once more this winter before hitting the free agent market following the 2013 season.