Derrek Lee, who rejected a trade to the Angels before the non-waiver deadline, may be willing to leave the Cubs for a National League team.
The Braves.
The Cubs are discussing a trade that would send Lee to Atlanta for prospects, according to a major-league source.
The Cubs' poor play since the deadline could be one reason that Lee would approve a deal. Lee also has been hot of late, and may be seeking to enhance his value as he enters the free-agent market.
It is not clear what role Lee would play in Atlanta. Braves first baseman Troy Glaus has shown signs of pulling out of a prolonged slump, but left Tuesday night's game after banging his knee. The extent of any injury to Glaus is not known.
The Braves, after losing third baseman Chipper Jones for the season, have been looking for help at second or third base. Martin Prado, who is proficient at both positions, played third after being activated from the disabled list on Tuesday night, with Omar Infante at second. Another possibility would be to put Glaus at third base.
Lee is owed about $3.3 million for the rest of the season, and the Cubs likely are willing to include cash in the deal. News of the talks between the Cubs and Braves first were reported by CSNChicago.com.
Lee was hitting .251 with 16 home runs and 56 RBIs on the season as of Wednesday morning.
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