Levine: Chapman Sweepstakes Includes The Cubs

By Bruce Levine

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The trade talks surrounding Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman have heated up in the last 24 hours, and one major league source said that the Cleveland Indians appear to be making a strong bid to obtain him.

"They feel they are close to getting the player," the source said Sunday.

The three leading clubs in the Chapman sweepstakes are Indians, Nationals and Cubs, another source said. Chapman has a 2.01 ERA and 0.89 WHIP while converting 20 of 21 save chances this season. He's set to be a free agent at season's end.

"Don't believe for a minute that Washington and Chicago won't step up here," the source said. "Those teams know Chapman can make the ultimate difference in the playoffs."

The Cubs have attractive minor league position players who could help in their attempt to get a closer. That includes top shortstop prospect Gleyber Torres, who was at the center of Cubs-Yankees trade talks late Sunday evening, according to multiple reports.

Chicago's main goal is to solidify the bullpen and get a left-handed bat in the outfield.

Chicago executives have a history with Oakland outfielder Josh Reddick, having drafted him in Boston. Athletics president Billy Beane and the Cub brass have always had a great working relationship.

Other A's who may fit for Chicago are relievers Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson.

The Yankees have yet to let clubs know if left-handed reliever Andrew Miller will be dealt. Miller could bring a better package of major league-ready players in a trade due to the fact he's signed for two more seasons. Chapman is a free agent after this season.

The Yankees' latest surge has baseball people scratching their head, figuring out if Miller and slugger Carlos Beltran will be dealt.

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.