DALLAS -- The Texas Rangers and Chicago Cubs have had numerous conversations the past two days that centered around Matt Garza, according to a major league source. However, Chicago remains hesitant to move the pitcher that most consider to be the team's ace.
The Rangers have been interested in Garza since he was with Tampa Bay at last year's winter meetings. In January, the Cubs sent right-handed pitcher Chris Archer, outfielder Brandon Guyer, catcher Robinson Chirinos, shortstop Hak-Ju Lee and outfielder Sam Fuld to Tampa for Garza, minor league outfielder Fernando Perez and left-handed pitcher Zachary Rosscup.
According to the source, the Cubs are seeking top-tier prospects from Texas in order to consider trading Garza, who was 10-10 with a 3.32 ERA last season. Garza is under contract and arbitration eligible for the next two years. He made $5.9 million this past season. His salary is expected to be somewhere between $8 million to $9 million in arbitration this year.
The feeling in Texas is that Garza would make a nice addition to an already accomplished rotation replete with young talent. If C.J. Wilson departs via free agency, Texas will not have a starter older than 28 remaining on its roster. Garza will be 28 this coming season.
The Rangers are said to still be in the mix for Wilson, who has reportedly gotten offers from the Los Angeles Angels and Miami Marlins in addition to Texas.
Another source told ESPNChicago.com that the Cubs asked for right-handed pitcher Scott Feldman as one piece in a Garza deal. Texas was unwilling to part with Feldman, the source indicated.
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs for ESPNChicago.com.