The Chicago Cubs checked in with the Detroit Tigers on the availability of pitcher Justin Verlander and catcher Alex Avila, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi.
The Cubs' interest in Avila has been noted, but Verlander is a new wrinkle in the Cubs' trade possibilities. The right-handed pitcher has a no-trade clause but he might be willing to leave Detroit for the right situation.
At 34 years old, Verlander is 5-5 with a 4.36 FIP in 17 starts this season. Meanwhile, Avila is having a career year with 11 home runs and a .310/.431/.571 in 204 plate appearances.
Source: Jon Morosi, MLB Network