REPORT: Cubs asking for Blue Jays’ top talent

Dec 9, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays general manager Alex Anthopoulos talks with reporters during the MLB Winter Meetings at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Mandatory Credit:

-USA TODAY Sports

According to MLB Trade Rumors, the Toronto Blue Jays have inquired about Cubs’ workhorse Jeff Samardzija, and, in return, Chicago is seeking Jays prospects Marcus Stroman, Aaron Sanchez and a player-to-be-named later – an asking price Toronto GM Alex Anthopoulos may not be willing to meet.

MLB.com Gregor Chisholm’s recent piece details the Jays’ top front office executive’s thoughts on the inclusion of his top talent in recent talks.

"“Almost every time,” Anthopoulos said when asked if teams are asking for Stroman or Sanchez. “If you’re trying to get a controllable starter, everyone would prefer to get the talent level that’s closest.”"

Both of the prospects are considered to be some of the top pitching talent available in all of Major League baseball, with Stroman ranking as the third-best Jays’ talent and Sanchez slotted at the organization’s top prospect. This type of request on behalf of Chicago falls in line with recent reports that indicated the Cubs’ asking price for Samardzija was incredibly high.

According to MLBTR, Anthopoulos has indicated he would include one – but not both – of this pair of prospects in the right deal. Toronto reportedly has their sights set on three starting pitchers, and could stretch that search into a fourth starter, as well.

The Blue Jays finished at 74-88 last year, and their 40-41 record at home helped the team finish at the bottom of the loaded American League East.