Braves were heavily involved in Jose Quintana trade talks, per report

The Cubs ended up getting White Sox southpaw Jose Quintana, but the Braves came close, according to a report.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that the Braves were in talks to land Chicago’s ace “until the end” but ultimately didn’t match the Cubs’ offer. This isn’t the first time John Coppolella has been tied to Quintana — the club was reportedly interested in getting him last winter, along with Chris Sale.

The Cubs paid a steep price to land Quintana, which shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. While he’s struggled at times during the first half of 2017, he owns a career 3.51 ERA (3.52 FIP) with solid strikeout and walk numbers. Add in his team control through 2020 and it’s easy to see why the White Sox cleaned up in this deal.

For comparison’s sake, the White Sox added Eloy Jimenez — comparable to Ronald Acuna, who the Braves refused to include — right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease (Ian Anderson/Mike Soroka), and two lesser pieces.

I’d imagine most fans would be livid if Coppolella met that asking price. Given the club’s need for a corner outfielder in the coming years, Ronald Acuna is probably as untouchable as it gets.