According to multiple reports, the Chicago Cubs are still likely to make a deal before the trade deadline. The chances of the Cubs snatching a starting pitcher are unlikely, but the team wants to acquire a backup catcher for Wilson Contreras. The team has been linked to Alex Avila, but that time has passed. They are moving on to another option.
Avila is out, while AJ Ellis is in
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs' interest in Avila has decreased. The team was once interested in making a trade for Avila and Justin Verlander, but the price tag was too high.
Now, according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun Times, the Cubs remain interested in Aj Ellis. In a report from Joe Frisaro of MLB.com, the team believes that Ellis can provide a defensive backstop to backup Contreras.
The Cubs also want a reliever, but the team has zeroed in on acquiring a catcher. Ellis would provide another defensive option for the Cubs late in games. The Cubs have been in search of a backup since the team waived Miguel Montero for his attitude. Ellis is not known for his hitting, as he is a career .238 hitter that broke into the league in 2008. Ellis has spent time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Miami Marlins.
Avila could draw interest from Rockies
According to a report from Ashley MacLennan, the Rockies are possibly the best destination for Avila. The Rockies have been in pursuit of a catcher that can add power to their already stacked lineup. Avila is hitting .276 this season with 11 home runs. The Rockies are hoping to match the lineup of the Arizona Diamondbacks, who recently traded for JD Martinez.
The Rockies recently gave up three prospects for reliever Pat Neshek, but Avila is a rental and is set to be a free agent at the end of the season. With this, Avila will not cost the Rockies a top-10 prospect. Colorado is currently holding down the second wild card spot, and hold a five game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Cubs would miss out on Avila
Both teams have pieces they could move, but the Cubs would really miss out if they did not acquire Avila. It would be an adjustment for the Detroit Tigers. Avila is currently the team's starting catcher, and would have to transition to a backup role if he came to Chicago. However, Montero and David Ross proved to be very useful during last year's playoff run. Avila's experience handling a pitching staff in crunch time would be crucial. Victor Caratini has been helpful with his call-up, but experience trumps all.
