Pitching Trade Speculations: Early Trade Deadline Targets and Potential Deals

As the MLB trade deadline looms at the end of July, teams evaluate their rosters and strategize to address their needs. In this article, we delve into potential trade scenarios and analyze their impact on contending teams. By considering player performances, prospect rankings, and statistical insights, we aim to provide a comprehensive and intelligent assessment of the trade landscape.

Trade Proposal 1: Marcus Stroman to the Texas Rangers

The Trade:

Rangers acquire: SP Marcus Stroman

Cubs acquire: RHP Jack Leiter (TEX #4, MLB #76)

Analysis:

With Jacob deGrom undergoing his second Tommy John surgery, the Texas Rangers need to bolster their pitching staff for a playoff push. Given their potent offense, which averages 5.9 runs per game, the Rangers are expected to be active buyers at the trade deadline. One player who could significantly impact their rotation is Marcus Stroman.

The Texas Rangers would acquire Marcus Stroman from the Cubs in this proposed trade. Stroman’s solid performance this season and his track record of success make him an attractive addition for the Rangers. Although currently on the injured list, Stroman was dealing before obtaining a blister issue on his throwing hand in his last start against the Cardinals in London. Experts do not expect Stroman to miss much time with this injury. On the other hand, the Cubs would receive Jack Leiter, the former second-overall pick in the 2021 MLB draft. Despite some struggles early in his major league career, Leiter remains a highly regarded prospect at just 23 years old, currently ranked as the 76th-best prospect in baseball.

Stroman’s career numbers against AL West opponents, including a 3.00 ERA in 30 innings pitched against the division-rival Astros, further highlight his ability to perform in crucial matchups. Stroman has amassed a 9-5 record this season with an impressive ERA of 2.47 and 85 strikeouts in 17 appearances. His consistent performance and experience would undoubtedly enhance the Rangers’ rotation and improve their chances in the postseason.

By acquiring Stroman, the Texas Rangers would address their pressing need for pitching depth, solidify their rotation, and increase their chances of making a deep playoff run. On the other hand, the Cubs would receive a highly regarded prospect in Jack Leiter, offering them a valuable asset for their future success.

Trade Proposal 2: Dodgers acquire Eduardo Rodriguez and Jason Foley

The Trade:

Dodgers acquire: SP Eduardo Rodriguez, RP Jason Foley

Tigers acquire: OF Andy Pages (LAD #6, MLB #58)

Analysis:

The Los Angeles Dodgers, known for their excellence, have been hindered by a lack of pitching depth and struggles in the bullpen. To strengthen their chances of another World Series run, the Dodgers could seek to acquire Eduardo Rodriguez and Jason Foley in this proposed trade with the Detroit Tigers.

The Dodgers currently ranked 18th in the majors in total WAR from relief pitchers, posting a modest 2.1. Additionally, they possess the fifth-highest bullpen ERA in baseball, indicating a need for reliable arms out of the bullpen. Jason Foley has been a standout performer for the Tigers, boasting a 2-2 record, an impressive ERA of 2.36, 30 strikeouts, and three saves in 34 appearances this season. His advanced metrics further demonstrate his effectiveness, with a 2.22 FIP, 3.13 xERA, 3.15 xFIP, and a SIERA of 3.02. Foley’s contributions would undoubtedly bolster the Dodgers’ bullpen and provide much-needed depth.

While the Dodgers’ starting rotation ranks in the middle of the pack in accumulated WAR at 4.9 and carries a 4.39 ERA, Eduardo Rodriguez’s potential addition would provide a significant boost. Although currently on the injured list, Rodriguez is expected to return to the big leagues in the first or second week of July after completing a successful rehab stint with Triple-A Toledo. Before his injury, Rodriguez was enjoying a career year, posting career-low numbers in ERA (2.13), xERA (3.08), and FIP (3.15). His overall performance had him on pace to achieve his highest career WAR, with 1.7 already accumulated. The Tigers, currently not in playoff contention with a record of 34-43, could capitalize on Rodriguez and Foley’s value and potentially acquire a promising prospect in return.

The Tigers would obtain Andy Pages, the sixth-ranked prospect in the Dodgers system and the 58th-best prospect in MLB, in this trade scenario. Pages, a 20 year old power-hitting Cuban outfielder, has shown promise in his power tool, hitting 86 home runs in 367 professional games over his first four seasons. Despite a season-ending shoulder injury in May, his performance in Triple-A demonstrated his skills despite some troubles in Double-A. Pages, who is expected to reach the major leagues next season, would add another bright young player to the Tigers’ stellar young outfield, complementing Riley Greene and Akil Badoo.

The Dodgers would address their pitching depth issues by acquiring Eduardo Rodriguez and Jason Foley and fortify their chances of contending for another championship. Meanwhile, the Tigers would gain a highly regarded prospect in Andy Pages, adding to their pool of young talent as they continue their rebuilding process.

Trade Proposal 3: Orioles acquire Shane Bieber

The Trade:

Orioles acquire: SP Shane Bieber

Guardians acquire: OF Heston Kjerstad (BAL #4, MLB #40), SS Joey Ortiz (BAL #5, MLB #66)

Analysis:

The Baltimore Orioles, looking to strengthen their roster for an October run, could make a trade with the Cleveland Guardians involving promising outfielder Heston Kjerstad and defensive-minded shortstop Joey Ortiz.

Kjerstad, with his impressive power tool, has already showcased his ability in the minor leagues, hitting 15 home runs this season, including four since being promoted to Triple-A. His potential as a power bat would be a valuable addition to the Guardians, who need a strong outfield presence beyond contact-oriented players like Steven Kwan and Myles Straw. Kjerstad’s scouting grades of 50 in hitting and 55 in power further solidify his potential impact.

Meanwhile, the Guardians have long struggled to find a defensively sound shortstop. With his exceptional defensive abilities, Joey Ortiz holds a prospect rating of 65 in this area. The Guardians’ current starting shortstop, Amed Rosario, has struggled defensively this season, with a negative defensive rating of -5.5, 8 errors, and -11 Outs Above Average (OAA). With Ortiz’s defensive prowess and the potential for offensive contributions, the Guardians would address a longstanding need in their lineup.

In return for Kjerstad and Ortiz, the Orioles would receive Shane Bieber, the Guardians’ ace pitcher. Bieber’s established success as a Cy Young award winner and his ability to dominate opposing lineups would greatly benefit the Orioles’ pitching staff. While the Guardians currently sit three games below .500 and may face a tough decision with Bieber, who becomes a free agent after this season, the Orioles would acquire a premier talent to anchor their rotation for a deep postseason run.

Trade Deadline Insights: Charting the Course for Team Transformation

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, teams will negotiate and pursue deals that address their specific needs and long-term goals. The trade proposals discussed in this article provide insights into potential transactions and the impact they could have on the involved teams. By analyzing player performances, prospect rankings, and the overall dynamics of each trade, teams can position themselves for success both in the present and future.