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Report: Cubs discussed Wilson with Tigers

Rick Osentoski / USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs, looking to further upgrade their relief corps from the left side, have reportedly contacted the Detroit Tigers about southpaw Justin Wilson, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network.

It's unclear how far along those talks may be, or if any kind of trade is imminent, Morosi reports.

Detroit has reportedly received plenty of interest in Wilson this winter; a previous report from Morosi from before the winter meetings suggested he may have garnered more inquiries than any other member of the team.

The Cubs have already added a pair of lefties this winter in Brian Duensing and Rule 5 draft pick Caleb Smith, but could see Wilson as a better replacement for free agent Travis Wood, who may not return to their bullpen in 2017. In addition, southpaw Mike Montgomery is likely to move into the starting rotation next year, leaving another possible hole for Wilson to fill.

Wilson posted a 4.14 ERA and 1.33 WHIP in 66 games for the Tigers last season. Despite being used as the Tigers' primary left-handed option, Wilson actually fared better versus right-handed hitters, who owned a .667 OPS facing him compared to lefties' .772 mark.

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