Cubs trade rumors: Kyle Schwarber unlikely to be moved

While he continues to be mentioned in trade rumors, Kyle Schwarber is unlikely to be moved by the Cubs ahead of the non-waiver trade deadline, according to FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal.

Chicago has expressed interest in adding a late-inning reliever, and Schwarber could be necessary in a deal to add a top arm to the bullpen. The Cubs have been linked to Andrew Miller and Aroldis Chapman, but Gordon Wittenmyer of The Chicago Sun Times believes Schwarber is currently unavailable in trade talks.

Schwarber, who is versatile because of his ability to catch and play in the outfield, had his season end prematurely after suffering a knee injury in April. However, he has still been the subject of trade rumors for teams thinking about adding offense before the off-season begins.

Schwarber appeared in only two games before going down. Over 69 games last season, he batted .246 to complement 16 home runs and 43 RBIs.

Although Schwarber is batting .143 against left-handed pitchers in his career, the Cubs are not concerned with his struggles, Rosenthal notes. He is set to return next season, which will likely improve Chicago’s lineup entering 2017.

As the Cubs, who sit atop the National League Central standings, search for bullpen help, Schwarber will likely draw interest. Regardless, Chicago appears adamant about keeping him despite his inactivity.