James Russell drawing interest

One trade has already been completed by the Chicago Cubs and more are expected, including a potential move involving left-handed reliever James Russell. Russell’s name was apparently a popular one over the weekend, according to Peter Gammons, as the 28 year old has started to draw interest from opposing teams.

Russell has been enjoying a career year with the Cubs this season. He’s made 34 appearances, sporting a 2.22 ERA and 1.068 WHIP. His splits have been reversed on the year, however. Lefties have hit .250/.327/.455 against Russell, but he’s held righties to a meager .122/.229/.146 line.

He’s earning just $1.78 Million this season and will be arbitration eligible for the final time in 2015.

It’s hardly a surprise to see Russell drawing interest. He was nearly moved a year ago at the trade deadline, he’s an effective reliever, and he’s affordable. He’s also left-handed, which adds value as teams are always in search of a solid southpaw to use in the bullpen. Nearly every team in the major leagues could potentially have interest.

The Cubs will make more moves in the coming weeks. Russell could be a likely candidate to be moved, if not next then soon.