The Cubs were first linked to Paul Maholm nearly a month ago as David Kaplan announced discussions between the two sides.
Those talks may have been tabled during the holiday season, but are reportedly ramping up again Monday.
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Ken Rosenthal Source: Cubs close on Maholm. MLB
Jan 09 via Twitter for MacFavoriteRetweetReply
Maholm would provide another solid arm in the rotation if Matt Garza is indeed traded. If the Cubs are able to extend Garza, Maholm could slot in as a solid No. 3 starter behind Garza and Dempster.
The 29-year-old lefty was drafted by the Pirates eighth overall in the 2003 draft. He's spent his entire career in Pittsburgh since then, compiling a 53-73 record with a 4.36 ERA.
He was 6-14 last season, but had a 3.66 ERA and 1.29 WHIP, both near career-highs.