Cubs, Dodgers close to Carlos Marmol trade

The Los Angeles Dodgers are close to acquiring reliever Carlos Marmol from the Chicago Cubs, according to ESPNChicago's Bruce Levine.

The 30-year old, designated for assignment on Tuesday, can block a deal to the Dodgers due to the partial no-trade clause in his contract.

Two teams, including the Dodgers, were trying to acquire Marmol as recently as this morning, a source confirmed to MLBDailyDish's Chris Cotillo. Considering Marmol's struggles this season (2-4, 5.86 ERA in 31 relief appearances), many are surprised that a team is willing to take the chance on him and his large salary.

According to Levine, the Dodgers will absorb at least some of the $5 million left on his contract, which expires at the end of the season.

It is not known at this time what the Cubs will receive in return for Marmol, but it is not expected to be much. Considering the on and off-the-field struggles of the former closer, it will likely be a lower-level minor leaguer or a player to be named later.

More from MLB Daily Dish:

• Brewers trade rumors: Yovani Gallardo has a ten-team no-trade list
• Cubs trade rumors: Matt Garza drawing interest from many teams
• Yankees rumors: Robinson Cano likely headed for free agency
• Phillies trade rumors: Red Sox, Yankees interested in Michael Young
• Join the MLBDD community and write a fanpost!