MLB Rumors: Giants not interested in trade for Jeff Samardzija?

Feb. 24, 2013; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Hohokam Park. The Cubs won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Feb. 24, 2013; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) throws during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Hohokam Park. The Cubs won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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The San Francisco Giants have won two of the last four World Series’ thanks to their impressive pitching arsenal.

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They haven’t been as good this season as both Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain have looked like shells of their former self, though the elite pitching hasn’t been needed as the Giants (thanks to an improved offense) hold Major League Baseball’s best record.

Despite that, rumors have swirled in recent weeks that they could have interest in a trade for Chicago Cubs ace, Jeff Samardzija, who appears to be on the first train out of town after he and the Cubs couldn’t find middle ground on a contract offer.

News leaked on Sunday morning suggesting that the Giants had interest in Samardzija, though local San Francisco beat writer Hank Shulman suggests he’s heard the exact opposite.

“I’ve heard the exact opposite than Nightengale about Samardzija, that barring injury #sfgiants have no plans to adjust rotation.”

The Giants do have one of the higher payrolls in the league and while it’s possible they could afford Samardzija, they have other pressing needs like bringing in a new second baseman. In addition, they’d have to either bump Tim Lincecum or Ryan Vogelsong from the rotation, which they probably don’t want to do even though it would probably be for the better.

Regardless, as of now it doesn’t look as if the San Francisco Giants are all that enamored with Samardzija’s likely price tag which should command a rather hefty prospect along with additional solid pieces to complete a deal.