Eugenio Suárez trade buzz sparks Cubs vs. rival showdown

Arizona Diamondbacks v Cincinnati Reds
Arizona Diamondbacks v Cincinnati Reds | Dylan Buell/GettyImages

The Chicago Cubs' interest in trading for Eugenio Suárez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is likely very similar to why they wanted Alex Bregman before the season started. The front office believes that Matt Shaw is the long-term answer at third base (his post-All-Star break heater helps), but Suárez represents an opportunity for the Cubs to not leave an unknown up to chance.

In many ways, Suárez's market will define the MLB trade deadline. While the Cubs, New York Yankees, and Detroit Tigers have been mentioned the most as teams interested in the All-Star third baseman, the list also includes the Milwaukee Brewers and Seattle Mariners.

As of Wednesday night, yet another team entered the mix for Suárez, and it's a team the Cubs know all too well. C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports that the Cincinnati Reds are interested in Suárez, and have had some form of discussions with the Diamondbacks.

Cubs’ Eugenio Suárez pursuit hits snag thanks to sneaky rival interest

Of course, Suárez's previous time with the Reds is what birthed his reputation of being a Cub killer. Suárez landing with the Reds wouldn't be as annoying as if he ends up in Milwaukee, but it would add a thorn to the Cubs' side as they navigate their schedule during the closing months of the season. The good news, however, is that MLB's Mark Feinsand referred to a potential deal as "a long shot".

If anything, adding in the fact that the Mariners have already had talks with the Diamondbacks about Suárez, the report of the Reds' interest is confirmation that Arizona is ready to talk about moving their rental players. Certainly, the Cubs will remain interested in Suárez, but the front office likely has eyes on Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen as potential additions to the rotation.

Along those lines, even though it should be viewed as unlikely, if the Cubs can pry Kelly and Suárez away from the Diamondbacks in the same deal, they likely would be willing to include Owen Caissie in such a move.

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