Report: Cubs are serious suitors for Wade Davis

The Chicago Cubs are seeking another back-end reliever, and they may do it through the trade market.

According to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, the Cubs are serious suitors for Royals closer Wade Davis.

Sources: #Cubs among most serious of early suitors on #Royals' Wade Davis. Interest mentioned earlier by @jonmorosi.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 5, 2016

While it’s not yet clear whether Kansas City is prepared to part with Davis, he’s a sensible option for the Cubs. The Royals’ chief motivation may be that he’s entering the final season of his deal and they likely won’t pay him what will be required to stick around long-term. He’s been one of the best relievers in baseball for three years and is making an affordable $10 million in 2017.

Of course, the Cubs will face still competition in trade talks if the Royals elect to move Davis this winter.