While the Chicago Cubs have publically come out in support of Starlin Castro despite his struggles at the plate, their interest in trade rumors is saying otherwise. The Cubs held on to Castro at the trade deadline. Then they moved him from shortstop to second base and now they are once again toying with trade deals as the waiver deadline looms. With several players now available for the taking, Castro is ignoring reports that his future is on the line.
According to the Chicago Sun Times, the Cubs continue to kick the tires around on a deal for Chase Utley. The Philadelphia Phillies infielder is back from a stint on the disabled list and gaining a lot of attention as he clears waivers. Certain reports start that Utley prefers signing with a West Coast team in order to be closer to home, but the Cubs are eyeing to make a run as well. According to Castro who would likely be involved in the deal, he is not concerned with things he cannot control.
"I don't even think about that. I don't even watch the news," said Castro, via the Sun Times. "I just come in every day and work had and try to do my best, and whatever they have to do with me, they'll do it. I can't control that."
For now Castro is competing to retain a spot at second base in order to remain in the lineup. Manager Joe Maddon has remained complimentary of Castro's change on the field, but if Chicago feels they can get an upgrade over the struggling star, they will likely take it. Castro has made it clear that he has no intentions of leaving Chicago, but that might not be in his hands anymore as the Cubs are on the brink of the playoffs and need everyone on board.
There are other options available outside of Utley. Martin Prado is likely being shopping by the Miami Marlins, but the team intends on being picky in what they get for the infielder. According to Joe Frisaro of MLB.com, the Marlins will shop the infielder if a team is willing to overpay for him. Would getting Castro in return be overpaying for the utility man? Jose Reyes is also available after he cleared waivers with the Colorado Rockies. The Cubs certainly have options, but they need to determine just what their faith is in Castro before making a move.
