" Looking to provide a right-handed presence in their lineup for the stretch run, the Braves appear to be close to landing Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee.

The Braves and Cubs are negotiating the specifics of the trade. A source close to the situation said Wednesday that the Braves are in the midst of evaluating Lee's health. The 34-year-old first baseman has been sidelined since Monday with lower back discomfort.

Lee, who declined to comment prior to Wednesday's game against the Padres at Wrigley Field, has a full no-trade clause that he exercised last month when the Cubs attempted to trade him to the Angels. It is unknown whether he has said he would accept a trade to the Braves.

"There's no reason to speculate," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "I wouldn't put much credence in rumors until something happens."

The Braves wouldn't have to part ways with Julio Teheran, Mike Minor or any of the other young pitchers that they have thrown into their "elite prospect" category, but the source indicated that the Cubs are seeking to land at least two above-average prospects. "