David Kaplan of CSNChicago.com is reporting that the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tigers are “down the road” in discussions for starting pitcher Matt Garza. The Tigers have been listed as one of five teams with interest in Garza, the others being the Red Sox, Yankees, Blue Jays and Marlins.
Earlier this month the Tigers made their way into the Garza rumor parade as it was reported that Detroit would be willing to part with top starting pitching prospect Jacob Turner. The Cubs have made it known that they will be seeking elite young arms in exchange for Garza, and Turner is regarded as one of the best young pitchers in baseball.
Since the Tigers interest in Garza surfaced, conflicting reporters have been issued regarding Detroit’s willingness to deal Turner. At first it appeared that the top prospect was on the table for the right starting pitcher, but Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski later came out and said Detroit isn’t looking to trade Turner.
Still, many believe that the Tigers would be willing to trade Turner if it meant bringing Garza into the fold.
Beyond Garza, other prospects that have been named in the Garza-to-Tigers rumors are third baseman Nick Castellanos and left-hander Casey Crosby. Detroit seems reluctant to move Castellanos, who projects as their third baseman of the future, but Kaplan says Crosby’s name could eventually find its way into discussions.
While Kaplan says the Tigers and Cubs talks for Garza have “progressed far beyond the initial stages”, no deal appears imminent. Throughout the offseason, Chicago has kept their asking price for their ace sky-high, and teams have been unwilling to meet their lofty demands.
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