According to a report from Peter Gammons, the Cubs and Padres have discussed a deal that would send Matt Garza to San Diego for a package of prospects, including outfielder Reymond Fuentes.
The Cubs could be looking to maximize Graza’s value by trading him well before the July 31 deadline. If the Cubs trade Garza sooner, rather than later, he would have a bigger impact on his new team moving forward and net the Cubs a bigger return.
Peter Gammons reported that Reymond Fuentes and two other prospects with connections to Jed Hoyer and Jason McLeod could be involved in the discussions. A report last week from Buster Olney indicated the Cubs had started exchanging names with other teams. And this would fall in line with Olney’s report.
The Giants, Orioles, Rockies, Indians and Rangers are also believed to be interested in Matt Garza.
The Red Sox selected Reymond Fuentes in the first round of the 2009 draft. Jed Hoyer acquired Fuentes, along with Anthony Rizzo and Casey Kelly from the Red Sox in the Adrian Gonzalez deal.
The 22-year old lefty hitting outfielder is having a good second year at the Double-A level. Fuentes managed only a .218/.301/.302/.604 line in 136 games last season with 20 doubles, four triples and four home runs. In 63 games this season, Fuentes is hitting .332/.419/.472/.891 with 14 doubles, two triples and five home runs.
Reymond Fuentes’ Page on Baseball-Reference
Gammons did not mention the names of the other two prospects, but the Cubs have been very transparent that any deal they make will include pitching.
Stay Tuned …