Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs discussing Jeff Samardzija trade

The Chicago Cubs have made starter Jeff Samardzija available this offseason, and the Toronto Blue Jays are making moves to sign him. The Blue jays have discussed the possibility of acquiring Samardzija from the Cubs and are piecing together a package of young players for him, according to ESPN Chicago’s Bruce Levine.

Aug 24, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) throws during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post also reported two weeks ago, the Washington Nationals will make an attempt to land the 28 year-old right-hander.

The Diamondbacks made a serious push for Samardzija before the non-waiver trade deadline in July and have been linked to him again this winter.

Samardzija, who is under the team’s control for two more seasons, was 8-13 with a 3.43 ERA in 2013. He has posted a career 29-35 record with a 4.19 ERA in 189 games (66 starts).

The Blue Jays were predicted to be a top team in the American League in 2013 but finished last in the AL East with a 74-88 record. The team is likely to add two starting pitchers and they have also inquired about Hiroki Kuroda, Ervin Santana, and even ex-Cub Matt Garza.

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