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Free agent Cobb would be 'honored' to sign with Cubs

Stephen Dunn / Getty Images Sport / Getty

If Alex Cobb decides to reject a $17.4-million qualifying offer from the Tampa Bay Rays before the Nov. 13 deadline, he may already have his eye on a new home for next season.

The free-agent right-hander said he wouldn't mind landing in Chicago with the Cubs and reuniting with his former manager, Joe Maddon, and pitching coach, Jim Hickey.

"Obviously, if we move down the line and we're able to have some discussions with them, I'd be very honored to be able to talk with them and hopefully come to a deal," Cobb said during an appearance on MLB Network Radio.

With the potential departures of Jake Arrieta and John Lackey on the horizon, the Cubs could be in need of starting pitching, and Hickey would support having the 30-year-old Cobb as a replacement.

"Go ahead. Good job. I'm on board," Hickey told "Spiegel and Parkins" of 670 The Score on Friday when asked what he would say if the Cubs suggested they sign Cobb.

Cobb pitched well for Tampa last year in his first full season since returning from Tommy John surgery performed in 2015. He amassed a 12-10 record with a 3.66 ERA and 1.22 WHIP during 29 starts, and is one of the top free-agent starters on the open market along with Yu Darvish, Lance Lynn, and Arrieta.

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