The Chicago Cubs have engaged in discussions with the Washington Nationals over starting pitcher Jordan Zimmermann, according to Gordon Wittenmeyer of the Chicago Sun Times.
Cubs, Nationals talking Jordan Zimmermann trade, per report
The Nationals could be looking for middle infield help, an area of strength for the Cubs.
Patrick Smith
The 28-year-old Zimmermann would fill a major void at the front of the Cubs' rotation, and could come cheaper than existing free agent options Jon Lester and Max Scherzer. He's only under club control, and whether the Cubs acquire him could hinge on Zimmermann agreeing to a contract extension.
Zimmermann is due $16.5 million in the final year of his contract, and has previously turned down a five-year, $85 million extension offer. He has undergone Tommy John surgery, but has been a success story since returning. The Nationals are said to be looking for middle infield help, and could put whoever they acquire (be it Starlin Castro, Javier Baez, Addison Russell, or Arismendy Alcantara) at the keystone for the time being. It's worth noting that the ability to play shortstop could be a major benefit with Ian Desmond only under contract through 2015.
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