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The Kansas City Royals could be both buyers and sellers this month, as they've asked the Chicago Cubs about Matt Garza, according to Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com.
"Despite having very little chance of contending for a playoff spot this year -- they woke up Tuesday 10 1/2 games out of first place and eight games out of a playoff spot -- the Royals have quietly been making inquiries on pitchers they could acquire now and control through next year.
One big name they've asked about: Matt Garza of the Cubs."
If they can't add a starter at the deadline, the Royals will reportedly make a run at their former Cy Young Award winner Zack Greinke in free agency.
The team was hoping Jonathan Sanchez would provide a strong veteran presence in their rotation after acquiring him from the San Francisco Giants this offseason. Not only has that not happened, but Kansas City actually sent him down today.
Garza is 5-7 with a 4.02 ERA and 1.17 WHIP for the Cubs this season. The 28-year-old will be arbitration eligible this winter and a free agent in 2014.
Even though they'll be looking to make an upgrade to their starting staff, the Royals are still shopping some of their veterans. The New York Mets have their eye on closer Jonathan Broxton, according to ESPN New York's Adam Rubin.
"Sandy Alderson said the Mets are focused on acquiring relief help at the trade deadline, much more so than a righty bat.
A major league source said one arm to which the Mets are paying close attention is Kansas City closer Jonathan Broxton."
Broxton signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the Royals this offseason and has racked up 22 saves and has a 2.14 ERA so far in 2012.
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Should the Royals add a pitcher at the deadline, or wait until the offseason?
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