Sep 18, 2021; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Steven Matz (22) throws a pitch against the Minnesota Twins during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Cubs among teams 'in on' free agent Steven Matz originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
The Cubs are among eight teams "in on" free agent lefty Steven Matz, MLB Network's Jon Heyman reported Monday.
Earlier Monday, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand indicated Matz will make his decision this week.
It's no secret starting pitching is the Cubs' top priority this winter, and Matz, 31 next May, is someone who could fall within their desired contract range.
Matz, who pitched for the Mets from 2015-20, is coming off a bounce-back season with the Blue Jays in which he made 29 starts, posting a 3.82 ERA, 144 strikeouts and 43 walks in 150 2/3 innings.
NBC Sports
The lefty was even better after the All-Star break: 14 starts, 2.91 ERA.
The Cubs had only nine starts made by lefties in 2021 (all by Justin Steele) — although team president Jed Hoyer said at the GM Meetings getting more left-handed isn't necessarily an emphasis.
Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter.
The Cubs claimed lefty Wade Miley off waivers early this month, and Steele will play a key role on next season's pitching staff in some fashion.
RELATED: How Cubs view rotation after Miley addition
Miley and Kyle Hendricks are the only arms penciled into next season's rotation, while Steele, Adbert Alzolay, Alec Mills and Keegan Thompson are other options.
Click here to follow the Cubs Talk Podcast.
