The MLB non-waiver trade deadline is now less than one week away, and it looks as though there could be a flurry of activity. It doesn’t appear as though any blockbusters are looming, but there are some good players on the market. With so many teams still involved in the playoff chase, I think it’s fair to assume we should see plenty of action.
The biggest name on the possible move is Cole Hamels, but the team that might have the most interest is not one of the contenders. The Red Sox are pretty much dead in the water as far as this season is concerned. But with Jon Lester apparently determined to test the free agent waters, the Red Sox are being proactive here. Boston has a very deep organization and is therefore a perfect trade partner for the Phillies, who desperately need to restock their system.
The Yankees have already added Brandon McCarthy and Chase Headley, but they’re not done dealing. The recent surge almost guarantees the Yankees will swing another deal or two. They reportedly are hot for Rockies southpaw Jorge De La Rosa.
It sure sounds like Jake Peavy is going to be on the move, and the Cardinals are still the rumored destination. St. Louis needs another starting pitcher and reports are that the Red Sox have had their top scouts taking in lower level Cardinals minor league games.
Aaron Hill’s name keeps popping up as the most likely member of the Diamondbacks to be wearing a new uniform shortly. Hill should be on the wish list for several teams, and if that’s the case, the Snakes could be well positioned to score a really good prospect from one of the prospective trade partners.
The Mets have apparently let the Rockies know they’d be interested in either Troy Tulowitzki or Carlos Gonzalez, but it doesn’t sound like the Rockies are ready to deal either star. But outfielder Drew Stubbs has a good chance to be changing addresses.
Justin Masterson is currently rehabbing and wasn’t pitching at all well prior to getting hurt, but he’s still a high potential pickup who will attract offers. I have no idea what the Indians asking price might be, but I’ll assume that it has to be a righty bat, as that’s a pressing need for the team presently.
The Tigers are not done shopping yet and are still on the prowl for a southpaw reliever. The Dodgers are also looking to upgrade their staff, but they reportedly covet a starting pitcher. Considering the form of Dan Haren, that makes sense, as does the team getting at least one of their outfielders out of LA.
Finally, I saw tonight where the Cubs are entertaining offers for Edwin Jackson. Good luck with that, Theo. Jackson still has two years remaining on a very bloated contract, so it’s difficult to envision Jackson getting moved unless the Cubs pick up a good percentage of the money still owed the mediocre righty.