Verlander, Stanton traded? It could happen
Major League Baseball’s nonwaiver trade deadline has come and gone.
But trading season isn’t over. Clubs can still complete trades through waivers. But the clock is ticking. Teams have until Aug. 31 to make a deal for a player to be eligible for the post-season with their new club.
While it highly uncommon for all-stars such as pitcher Justin Verlander of the Detroit Tigers and slugger Giancarlo Stanton of the Miami Marlins to change teams, it’s still a possibility. They have both cleared waivers.
It’s more common for lowertiered players to clear revocable waivers and be dealt to contending playoff teams.
There have already been several low-profile deals this month. Reliever Tyler Clippard, second baseman Neil Walker, outfielder Jay Bruce, outfielder Curtis Granderson and first baseman Yonder Alonso have been dealt to contending teams.
With just over a week left before post-season eligibility expires, here are players who cleared waivers and could be traded: Justin Verlander, RHP, Detroit Tigers The Tigers and Houston Astros have discussed a trade involving the former American League Cy Young winner, according to FanRag Sports. The Chicago Cubs have also shown interest. But, given what the Tigers want in return for Verlander, a deal is unlikely. Verlander, 8-8 with a 4.11 ERA and 8.9 strikeouts per nine, is owed $56 million over the next two seasons and has a $22-million option in 2020. The right-hander would be a great addition to the Astros pitching staff that ranks 12th in the league with a 4.22 ERA. Giancarlo Stanton, OF, Miami Marlins The chances of the Marlins trading Stanton, who is on pace to slug 60 home runs, are remote. Though his price tag is high — Stanton is owed $295 million over the next 10 years — a few clubs have discussed the possibility of trading for Stanton, according the Yahoo Sports. Stanton, who has set a franchise record with 43 home runs, has slugged 11 home runs in the past 13 games. Rajai Davis, OF, Oakland Athletics Davis, 36, is a well-travelled veteran with a proven track record. Despite batting a career-low .239, his speed could land him on a contending team in need of a pinch-hitter and fourth outfielder. He had 16 stolen bases since July 5. Brandon Phillips, 2B, Atlanta Braves Phillips, 36, is an experienced veteran who becomes a free agent at the end of the season. He’s been solid in his first season with the Braves, batting .290 with a .330 on-base percentage. And, since his move to third base, he’s been exceptional defensively.