There's been a lot of speculation as to what the Red Sox will receive as compensation if and when Theo Epstein heads to the Cubs. While much of the the rumors have centered around prospects, the Sox reportedly also inquired about some veteran talent.
The Red Sox initially wanted pitcher Matt Garza, but the Cubs reportedly refused, according to ESPN.com.
Most Sox fans likely remember Garza for his performance in Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS as a member of the Tampa Bay Rays, when he held the Sox to one run on two hits in seven innings while striking out nine. The Rays, of course, went on to win that game, 3-1, and advance to their first World Series in team history.
After two seasons with Minnesota and three seasons with Tampa Bay, Garza was traded to the Cubs this past January and posted a 10-10 record with a 3.32 ERA in 31 starts in his first season in Chicago.
The 27-year-old right-hander is 52-54 with a 3.83 ERA in 152 games (149 starts) during his six-year major league career.
In the wake of the Cubs' refusal to deal Garza, the two teams have reportedly been discussing minor leaguers as compensation.
