AJ Ramos Trade Rumors: Cubs, Rockies, Nationals Reportedly Interested in Closer

The pursuit of Miami Marlins closer AJ Ramos continues to heat up heading into the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. 

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies and Washington Nationals are all "expressing strong interest" in the 30-year-old.

Although the Marlins have struggled to a 44-52 record this season entering Monday, Ramos has saved 19 games in 21 opportunities this season. His 3.86 ERA matches the worst of his career, but he does have 46 strikeouts in 37.1 innings.

Meanwhile, the reliever has proved himself as a top option in the past, totaling 72 saves over the past two seasons while earning an All-Star appearance in 2016. He has a 2.80 career ERA in six seasons in the majors.

Considering he remains under team control until after the 2018 season, it is understandable for teams to be interested in the right-hander. Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports previously reported at least six squads were pursuing the veteran.

"You see it and try not to think about it too much because it’s not anything you can control," Ramos said of the rumors, per Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald. "We're talking about stuff that's not real so far."

Of course, the increased interest from three contenders in the National League could indicate a move is closer to happening.

Although all three squads could use more help in the bullpen, the Cubs rank fifth in the majors in bullpen ERA, per ESPN. The Rockies rank 25th in this category while the Nationals are dead last with a 5.18 ERA.

It will be up to the teams to offer the Marlins an adequate return, but there is no question which squad needs someone like Ramos the most.