Trade deadline nears inmost unusual season
The unusual MILWAUKEE — circumstances surrounding the abbreviated baseball season are creating plenty of questionsforteamslookingto upgrade their rosters before Monday’s trade deadline.
The expanded playoff format reduces the number of teams eager to write off the season and makemoves aimed at the future. The lack ofminorleaguegamesmakes it tough for teams to decide which prospects to pursue from other organizations.
A big question looming over the trade deadline is the uncertain status of the season itself. Why should a teamrisk its long-term future and trade top prospects to pursue a titlewhen the pandemic could put the entire postseason at risk?
Coronavirus outbreaks have put the MiamiMarlins and St. Louis Cardinalswell behind schedule this season.
The unique nature of this postseason could reduce the numberof teamsinterestedin trading. Eightteamsfromeach league willmake the playoffs.
Another issue hinders trades of prospects. Without anyminorleaguegames, organizations will have a tough time getting an accuratemeasure of prospects from outside their own systems.
Here’s a rundown of some established players who could be mentioned in trade talks:
Pittsburgh Pirates P Keone Kela: Contenders often are looking for relief help. Kela has a solid track record after posting a 2.12 ERA last year and recording 24 saves in 2018. Kela left the Pirates’ game Fridaywith forearm tightness.
Texas Rangers P Lance Lynn: Lynn’s 4-0record and 1.59 ERA make him one of baseball’s best pitchers this season. He’d be the top available starter if Texas chooses to shop him. Lynn remains undercontract through2021, which may entice the Rangers to keep him unless someone makes a huge offer.
Boston Red Sox DH J.D. Martinez: Boston already sent relievers BrandonWorkman andHeathHembree to Philadelphia lastweek. Martinez has struggled so far this season but posted an OPS over .900 every year from 2016 to 2019.
Kansas City Royals P Trevor Rosenthal: The formerCardinals closer signed a minor-league deal with Kansas City inDecemberand has seven saves and a 1.46 ERA.
Detroit Tigers 2B Jonathan Schoop: He’s on a oneyear deal and could interest any teams looking for a power-hitting infielder.
Seattle Mariners P Taijuan Walker: Walker has bounced back and emerged as a reliable starter. He’s on a one-year deal and could help any team looking to boost its rotation.