Levine: Samardzija Will Be Scouted By Diamondbacks Again

By Bruce Levine-

(CBS) Cubs right-hander Jeff Samardzija will be scouted by the Arizona Diamondbacks again as the latter searches for answers following an elbow injury to ace Patrick Corbin that could keep him out the entire season, sources told 670 The Score.

The left-handed Corbin has damage to his left ulnar collateral ligament and faces the possibility of Tommy John surgery. Corbin will seek a second opinion on the elbow he injured over the weekend.

Either way, he'll likely be out for some time, so Arizona is interested in a front-line starter. Samardzija fits the bill, and he's been a trade candidate ever since he and the Cubs failed to reach a long-term contract over the offseason. He's working on a one-year deal.

Arizona has a top young starter in Archie Bradley. The Cubs would likely begin by asking for Bradley, who is close to major league ready.

Bradley was the Diamondbacks' top pick in the 2011 amateur draft (seventh pick overall). He was 12- 5 in the minor leagues last season and is expected to start this season in Triple-A. The Diamondbacks  coveted Samardzija in the offseason and had discussions with the Cubs before signing Bronson Arroyo as a free agent for the rotation.

Arizona has depth at shortstop but would have to use Bradley in a deal to get a top-of-the-rotation pitcher back. The Diamondbacks may decide to promote Bradley to the major leagues early if they feel a trade would hurt their long-range plans.

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.