Cubs Reportedly Interested in World Series Winning Pitcher

The Chicago Cubs might have set their sites on another available starting pitcher who has championship pedigree.

If the Chicago Cubs want to salvage their offseason, they need to start making aggressive moves that immediately impact their roster.

One of the best ways they can do that is by adding an elite starting pitcher.

They've been connected to a few names in free agency and those that have become available on the trade market. The most notable one was Tyler Glasnow, who eventually was acquired by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Cubs were seemingly ready to spend major money this offseason, but now there's some speculation that they might not be willing to offer large contracts to free agents.

With a strong pipeline, the way they could add an elite starter might be through a trade.

One option that has presented itself is that the Houston Astros are reportedly taking calls on their ace Framber Valdez with concerns about their own financial situation presenting itself.

And according to Ryan Bunton of Chowder & Champions, Chicago's front office is interested.

"Boston's AL East foe Baltimore Orioles, as well as the Chicago Cubs are also expected to be in contention for Valdez," he reports.

The Astros would be looking for elite prospects in return to rebuild their farm system, something that the Cubs could offer. Plus, with Valdez's contract only costing roughly $12 million for the 2024 season, that could entice Chicago to make an offer.

Unlike Glasnow, Valdez also has another year of club control and does not have the injury history that the Tampa Bay Rays' ace has had throughout his career.

Ultimately, if the Cubs think that this helps them move into contender status, they're going to have to spend a bit to get this deal done.

Are they willing to do that?

Only time will tell.