White Sox in talks with Padres to get pitcher

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The White Sox and Padres have been discussing a trade that would bring right-hander James Shields to the South Side.

It's a match that would make sense for both sides. The Padres are looking to shed salary, and the Sox want to bolster their pitching.

Shields, signed to a four-year, $75 million deal as a free agent before the 2015 season, is the type of starter the Sox need not only to contend for the American League Central but to provide a legitimate No. 3 starter in a potential playoff series behind ace Chris Sale and No. 2 Jose Quintana.

• This report was produced in partnership with the Chicago Sun-Times. For related coverage, check chicago.suntimes.com.