Cubs Reportedly Aggressive in Trade Talks With Rockies for Nolan Arenado

It would appear that Theo Epstein is prepared to make amends for the Chicago Cubs' lifeless offseason with one swift, gargantuan move.

On ESPN1000, Dave Kaplan didn't hesitate in saying that the Cubbies are aggressively pursuing disgruntled Colorado Rockies superstar Nolan Arenado.

Kaplan addressed the conflicting reports that have emerged out of the Centennial State, claiming that Arenado approached Rockies higher-ups to assert his intentions of wanting to be traded.

“I was on the phone with somebody in Colorado last night who covers the Rockies" said Kaplan, "and he said to me, ‘Hey dude, let me just tell you, these discussions are real. Nolan Arenado … absolutely wants out of the Colorado Rockies organization, and he’s made it clear to ownership. I don’t want to be here. Get me outta here. I’m telling you, the Cubs are absolutely motivated to try to get him. Absolutely, 100%.' "

Kaplan continued to note that a hypothetical package would feature a swap between Arenado and Kris Bryant, who previously lost his service time grievance with the Cubs.

The Rockies would, of course, have to swallow some of Arenado's salary, which is set at $35 million for the 2020 season. The Cubs, on the other hand, would cough up a prospect alongside Bryant.

Chicago and Colorado have reportedly discussed an Arenado-Bryant swap within the last couple of weeks, so its plausible to think that talks have revved up again.

Both clubs would undoubtedly prefer to strike a deal before the start of the regular season, which is just a little over a month away, so stay tuned for updates.