The Cubs are shopping their top players for young talent, and the Royals have an abundance of young talent.
Chicago starter Paul Maholm is getting interest from the Royals, according to ESPN Chicago.
The Pirates, Maholm's former team, and Kansas City have interest in the crafty pitcher, according to major league sources.
The Royals haven't been considered buyers at the trade deadline for some time, and the struggles this season mean the Royals are going all-in or anything, but Maholm would be a solid addition to a rotation that has problems.
The 30-year-old has allowed one earned run or fewer in his last three starts. On the season, Maholm is 7-6 with a 4.33 ERA. He signed a one-year deal with the Cubs in January, but has a team option for 2013. MLB Trade Rumors broke down the money.
Maholm has about $1.97 (million) still owed to him in 2012 under the one-year deal he signed in January. The contract also contains a $6.5 (million) option for 2013 which could be a key factor for the Royals, who are known to be looking for veteran pitchers who are controllable past 2012.
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