The Texas Rangers took a huge hit today, as the team announced ace stating pitcher Yu Darvish has a sprained UCL. Darvish is considering Tommy John Surgery, which would ultimately end his season. Either way, Darvish’s season is in jeopardy, and surgery is likely to be the outcome. Now, with the Rangers losing a potential CY Young candidate, could the Rangers coming calling the Chicago Cubs about starting pitcher Travis Wood?
The Rangers have had interest in Wood in the past, and Wood appears to be on the trading block. As of now, Wood is the leader to win the 5th spot in the starting rotation. However, the Cubs have many potential 5th starters, and a lost of Wood would not devastate them. The Cubs first four spots are taken up by Jon Lester, Jake Arrieta, Jason Hammel, and Kyle Hendricks.
Along with Wood, other players competing for a spot in the Cubs rotation are Edwin Jackson, Jacob Turner, Felix Doubront, and Tsuyoshi Wada.
Wood kicked off the Cubs Cactus league scheduled and had a great outing. In two innings of work, Wood gave up no hits, runs, or walks, while striking out two.
The Cubs would not be asking much for Wood, but a couple of players in the minors – likely lower level with upside. The Cubs would want the Rangers to take on Wood’s second year of arbitration salary (5.685 million).
I do expect the Rangers to come calling on Wood, but it is a matter on whether a deal can be agreed to. Could both teams talk about a bigger trade? The Cubs have three catchers and the Rangers need another catcher. The Rangers once talked about Welington Castillo with the Cubs, and I wonder if a deal will be talked upon once again.
Only time will tell if this idea moves into the headlines…
Leave a Reply