General Manager Larry Himes says there is strong interest around the major leagues in reliever Randy Myers, who set a National League record with 53 saves last season and made the All-Star team this year.
More Top Picks What To Expect The First 48 Hours After Cardiac Surgery
“I’ve heard from a lot of teams,” said Himes. “All you have do is look around and see what teams need a guy like that.”
Among teams expressing interest in Myers are the New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians and Los Angeles Dodgers.
A published report Thursday said the Cubs have talked to Los Angeles about trading Myers for Triple-A outfielders Billy Ashley and Todd Hollandsworth.
Himes paused several seconds, then said “no” when asked if there was any truth to the report. He said he hadn’t heard from the Dodgers, but admitted that getting a couple of top-line prospects is the kind of deal he’d like to make.
“Sure, that’s exactly what would be ideal,” said Himes.
The Cubs’ outfielders have had a miserable year defensively and a sporadic one on offense. Their best prospects at Triple-A Iowa are speedy Scott Bullett, who is hitting .302, and Ozzie Timmons, who leads the team with 11 homers.
Ashley, a right-handed hitter, made the Triple-A All-Star team and is batting .326 with 20 homers and 64 runs batted in. Hollandsworth, known for his speed and power, has 54 RBIs at Albuquerque.
Other side: Dodger GM Fred Claire also denied anything was up with the Cubs. “I have not spoken to the Cubs in some time and I am not in trade discussions at this time,” said Claire, who is high on both prospects. Ashley has more home-run potential, but Hollandsworth is a better fielder.