Because he’s proven his ability to pitch successfully in the American League East, the Blue Jays, Red Sox, Yankees and even Orioles have been tied to Cubs starting pitcher Matt Garza this offseason. Now, Jon Paul Morosi of Fox Sports is reporting that the Tigers have joined the mix of Garza suitors as they continue their search for a starter. Morosi notes that interest in Garza has picked up recently, making it all the more likely that the right-hander be dealt before spring training.
The Tigers have been flying under the radar a bit in their search for rotation upgrades this winter. While they were in on Athletics left-hander Gio Gonzalez before he was traded to the Nationals, Detroit wasn’t willing to meet Oakland’s asking price. In exchange for Gonzalez, the A’s were requesting a package built around top Tigers prospects Jacob Turner and Nick Castellanos.
Garza, while more proven than Gonzalez, is also under team control for fewer years. For this reason, Morosi believes it’s less likely that the Cubs would insist on both Turner and Castellanos in talks for Garza.
But, this is exactly where Chicago may start negotiations, as their asking price for Garza is reportedly sky-high. This lofty asking price has cooled the Yankees on Garza, though they and the Blue Jays should have what it takes in the minors to swing a deal for the right-hander.
The Red Sox are certainly interested in Garza, but Morosi hears they aren’t in active trade talks with the Cubs at the moment. Unlike the Blue Jays and Yankees, it’s unknown if the Red Sox have what it takes to bring in Garza. Boston has already shipped out much of its minor league depth to bring in late-inning relievers Mark Melancon and Andrew Bailey.