Last trading deadline Aug. 31 for contenders
Major League Baseball’s non-waiver trade deadline passed with a flurry of activity. But trading season isn’t over. Teams can complete trades through waivers until Aug. 31 in order for a player to be eligible for the postseason with their new club.
Last year, Houston nabbed Justin Verlander seconds before the Aug. 31 deadline and the Astros went on to win the World Series.
Here are five players who could be traded.
RHP Matt Harvey, Reds
Cincinnati opted not to flip Harvey at the trade deadline, despite discussions with several teams. The veteran has been a modest pitcher since he was acquired from the Mets in May, posting a 5-4 record with a 4.44 ERA over 14 starts. He will get another three to four starts in August that could improve his stock as a starter or a long reliever.
C Devin Mesoraco, Mets
Mesoraco, who was acquired in the May 8 trade for Harvey, has stated he “would be super excited to go to a team” in playoff contention. The only move the Mets made at the deadline was trading infielder Asdrubal Cabrera to the Phillies. Mesoraco, batting .227 entering Wednesday, becomes a free agent at the end of the season.
RHP Sergio Romo, Rays
Tampa Bay won the trade deadline by sending pitcher Chris Archer to the Pirates. The Rays also sent All-Star catcher Wilson Ramos and starter Nathan Eovaldi packing this week. But remaining in the bullpen is Romo, who has recorded 12 saves and a 3.69 ERA. The Rays were active in the spring and in July, so why not in August? Romo’s contract expires this season.
OF Adam Jones, Orioles
With 10-and-5-rights (10 years of MLB service time, including five years with one club), Jones has complete control over his future and would have to waive his no-trade clause to be moved. He nixed a trade to the Phillies on deadline day. But after saying goodbye to second baseman Jonathan Schoop, shortstop Manny Machado, closer Zach Britton, starting pitcher Kevin Gausman and relievers Brad Brach and Darren O’Day, he might change his tune over the next few weeks. Jones, an impending free agent, also drew interest from the Indians at the deadline. The fivetime All-Star is batting .285 with 11 home runs and 44 RBI.
OF Andrew McCutchen, Giants
San Francisco still has playoff aspira- tions, sitting 41⁄ games out of the wild2 card race in the National League entering Wednesday. But if the Giants fall any deeper in the playoff race, McCutchen could become available. The Yankees, Indians and Phillies showed interest in the 2013 NL MVP at the deadline.