Here are 12 players whose names have been discussed in the MLB trade market amidst an already-exciting offseason.
1. Mookie Betts – Red Sox
The possibility of Betts being moved is probably one of the least likely on this list. The Rays and Dodgers would be interesting fits for Betts, but will probably explore all other options first. Part of that reason being Betts could be a $35-40 million guy.
2. Starling Marte – Pirates
While there are no substantial rumors, if a team makes a sufficient offer, Pittsburgh may pull the trigger.
3. Ken Giles – Blue Jays
With just about every team in search of relief pitching, Giles could be someone the Blue Jays will receive more than a few calls about. With that being said, they may decide to hold tight and use him as bait come the trade deadline, especially if the season doesn’t go according to plan.
4. Jackie Bradley, Jr. – Red Sox
For those teams interested in Betts, Bradley may be a better and cheaper long-term solution. While he doesn’t play the same position, a team (maybe the White Sox) may be able to acquire Bradley and shift another player over.
5. Francisco Lindor – Indians
This is one name that has come up more recently after Cleveland traded Corey Kluber. Lindor’s elite talent could pique teams’ interest with uncertainty at shortstop.
5. David Price – Red Sox
The left-handed veteran appeared to digress last year. For Price’s sake, it may have simply been a down year. The Red Sox will, in all likelihood, have to eat a huge chunk of his $32 million before any team will take a bite at Price.
7. Robbie Ray – Diamondbacks
With the big names (Cole, Strasburg, Bumgarner and Kuechel) all off the market, many teams thin on starting pitching could inquire about Ray.
8. Clint Frazier – Yankees
While the Yankees may not want to part with Frazier, if they get an offer they can’t refuse…
9. Kris Bryant – Cubs
All the teams in need of a third baseman are fighting for Josh Donaldson. With the second-best option on the market being a significant downgrade in Todd Frazier, a team may kick the tires and see what it will take for the Cubs to part with Bryant…
10. Nolan Arenado – Rockies
…or the Rockies with Arenado.
11. Willson Contreras – Cubs
Other than the White Sox (Yasmani Grandal), teams are not fighting for a catcher as of yet. However, as opposed to a free agent, Contreras might not garner much for the Cubs to part with him.
12. Wil Myers – Padres
His play has yet to justify his $20 million dollar contract. Similar to David Price, to make Myers somewhat appealing to other teams, the Padres may have to eat a bulk of his money.
Parting words: Two more names that teams could inquire about that may come at a price but probably won’t break the bank are Chris Archer (Pirates) and J.A. Happ (Yankees).
