The Chicago Cubs have been mediocre for the majority of the season. The team is 43-45 and 5.5 games out of first place in the National League Central Division. The Cubs have been linked to trade rumors this last month. With the trade deadline nearing at the end of the month, add one more juicy rumor to the list.
Report says Schwarber being shopped
Former Washington National general manager Jim Bowden said on MLB Network that the Cubs called the Detroit Tigers about Michael Fulmer. The all-star from the Tigers is 9-6 with a 3.19 earned run average this season.
He also holds a 1.12 WHIP this year and is just 24 years old.
The Cubs want young, controllable pitching which is why they have been linked to Chris Archer for the most of this season as well. Jake Arrieta and John Lackey are going to be free agents this upcoming offseason. Jon Lester is 34 years old, and the team is not sure about Eddie Butler or Mike Montgomery as starters. Fulmer would give the team a huge lift on the staff for this season, and in the future.
The Report claims that Schwarber is on the list a trade chip. A year ago, Schwarber was linked to possible trades, but Cubs president Theo Epstein made public comments about how the Cubs would keep him. Schwarber is just 24 years old, and had a great postseason last year, but is hitting just .178 this season.
His batting average is one of the worst in the majors. If the report is true, both sides could walk away happy.
Contradicts Verlander report
If Bowden's comments are true, the report contradicts a report that that the Cubs were looking into acquiring Justin Verlander and Alex Avila. The Cubs were rumored to be interested in the 34 year old Verlander.
The former Cy Young award winner finished second in the race last year. However, his contract is a heft cost. Verlander is set to make $28 million a year the next two seasons.
Avila has been one of the most consistent hitters for the Tigers this season. Avila is hitting .299 this season, but would assume a backup role if the Cubs acquired him.
The Cubs already have a starter in Wilson Contreras this year. A trade for either or both of these players would probably cost the Cubs a player like Schwarber considering where his value is.
Likely trade
The Cubs area likely going to make a trade. Out of the two scenarios, the Cubs would likely go after Fulmer more than Verlander. The 10 year age gab is critical given where the Cubs rotation is. Everything could change if the Cubs are high on Schwarber like they have claimed.
