Several teams, including the Cubs and Dodgers, are searching for starting pitching to gear up for the pennant race this summer.
As such, the Cubs have discussed the possibility of acquiring Mets LHP Jon Niese, FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal reported this past weekend. However, Rosenthal opines if the Mets want to move Niese and acquire anything of significance in return from the Cubs, Niese would have to be part of a larger deal.
In addition to the Cubs, Rosenthal said on Sunday afternoon the Dodgers have also expressed interest in Niese, although no active discussions are ongoing.
Despite this reported interest, two sources this week have indicated to David Lennon of Newsday there have been no serious conversations with either the Dodgers or the Cubs for a deal involving Niese to date. It’s also possible Chicago’s interest has dwindled in Niese, reports Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.
With Cole Hamels remaining available from the Phillies, both Los Angeles and Chicago could initially be aiming higher than Niese as they seek upgrades in the rotation. And, Rosenthal believes the Cubs at least would probably prefer someone better than Niese at this time as well.
However, the price tag to acquire Hamels reportedly remains very high.
If that price remains out of touch as the trade deadline draws closer, perhaps the Dodgers and the Cubs would search the next tier of available pitching, which would make the Mets a theoretical fit for them.
Just Mets 