White Sox, Nationals meeting to discuss Chris Sale trade

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — The Nationals and White Sox will meet Monday afternoon at the Winter Meetings to discuss Chris Sale, according to FanRag Sports’ Jon Heyman. Washington is reportedly “stepping up” its efforts to acquire the lefty.

Washington is reportedly targeting both Sale and Andrew McCutchen in trade talks during this week’s meetings, which are being held on the team’s home turf. The Nats are also targeting relief pitching in the wake of losing Mark Melancon to the Giants, and have interest in Neftali Feliz and Brad Ziegler, according to sources.

Chicago will likely target young stars Trea Turner and Lucas Giolito in talks with the Nats, though Turner is thought to not be available in trades. Giolito could be a headliner in talks for Sale, with Reynaldo Lopez and Victor Robles being potential other pieces involved.

Washington is not the only team pursuing Sale, as the Red Sox are also looking at the lefty. Other clubs — including the Rangers and Braves -- seem like less likely fits than they did over the weekend.