The trade deadline is approaching, and it is time for teams to either elevate their seasons or tank them. Each team needs different things, so let’s look at one thing for each team at the deadline.
Disclaimer: Some moves were made before the publication of this article that would affect the “possible fits.”
Arizona Diamondbacks – Prospect Packages
The Diamondbacks are absolutely in rebuild mode and have a few players that are sought after. Arizona needs to look to dish Eduardo Escobar, Ketel Marte, or David Peralta at the deadline. There isn’t really any specific player to acquire, but they could bring in nice packages from contending teams. Pitching is stronger than hitting, so hitters may be priority one.
Possible Fits: Any decent hitting prospect
Atlanta Braves – Outfielders
The loss of Ronald Acuna really hurts the Braves chances at a division title, but they are not out of it. However, they are in win now mode for the next few years, and they must make a trade deadline move that shows that.
Possible Fits: Joey Gallo (TEX), Brian Reynolds (PIT), Starling Marte (MIA), or Andrew McCutchen (PHI). I think Reynolds is the best fit, but the Pirates may not let him go.
(Update: The Braves added Joc Pederson before the publication of this article)
Chicago Cubs – Starting Pitching and Outfielders
The Cubs outfields have been poor swinging the bat this year and that needs to change. None of their outfielders are above league average hitting except Kris Bryant, who doesn’t even play there every game. However, they also need to help Kyle Hendricks in the rotation. If they were only going to look at one move, I think it should be pitching.
Possible Fits: Kyle Gibson (TEX), Danny Duffy (KCR), John Means (BAL), Max Scherzer (WAS)
Cincinnati Reds – Bullpen Arms
With a good shot at the playoffs, Cincy needs bullpen guys to help get them there. The offense has mostly been firing led by the outfield duo, and starters have been fine. The bullpen has some bright spots like Sean Doolittle but needs overall help.
Possible Fits: Daniel Hudson (WAS), Craig Kimbrel (CHI), Daniel Bard (COL), Trevor Story (COL)
Colorado Rockies – Prospect Packages
With the Rockies falling out of contention, Trevor Story needs to be traded now. The Rockies need to get an inspiring trade package from his departure, unlike Nolan Arenado.
Possible Fits: Trade packages from any team in the running for Trevor Story
Los Angeles Dodgers – Bullpen Depth
While playing in the most competitive division in baseball, there is no room for error in Los Angeles. Despite the most complete team in baseball, the Dodgers could always add extra good relievers to load the playoff roster. They shouldn’t give up too much in any move, though.
Possible Fits: Andrew Chafin (CHC), Richard Rodriguez (PIT), Jose Cisnero (DET)
Miami Marlins – Young Offensive Players
The Marlins are taking the steps in the right direction, specifically with their pitching staff. However, they are out of contention early, and this trade deadline should be spent making more steps to their future. The future of the offense is not as strong as the pitching, so they should start there. With so much demand of Starling Marte and Jesus Aguilar, Miami can piece together nice packages.
Possible Fits: Jose Rodriguez (CHW), Mark Vientos (NYM), Jonathan Arauz (BOS), Taylor Walls (TBR)
Milwaukee Brewers – Hitters
Milwaukee’s pitching staff is keeping them in first place so far in 2021, but they won’t be able to stay there for long without bats to compete with the best in the NL. They have loads of young bats in the farm system but must move some if they want to win now.
Possible Fits: Trevor Story (COL), Kris Bryant (CHC), Kyle Seager (SEA), Starling Marte (MIA)
New York Mets – Outfielders
The Mets were supposed to be good this season, but I was not expecting them to lead the east. The starting pitching has been elite, although they need more guys at the back end. Yet, their biggest weak spot has been their outfield play. Other than Dominic Smith, they have been well below average.
Possible Fits: Starling Marte (MIA), Bryan Reynolds (PIT), Ketel Marte (ARI)
Philadelphia Phillies – Pitching
The Phillies offense has been explosive in 2021, but their pitching not so much. They need help in both the back of the rotation and the bullpen. The Phillies can make a run, but they need arms.
Possible Fits: Kendall Graveman (SEA), Kyle Gibson (TEX), Jon Gray (COL), Dylan Floro (MIA)
Pittsburg Pirates – Prospect Packages
There isn’t much that the Pirates need right now, but they need to continue to improve the farm system. They are ranked 8th in farm system, but their goal should be to get in the top 5 soon. They are at least 3 years away, this trade deadline should be future-driven.
Possible Fits: Anybody interested in trading for Bryan Reynolds
San Diego Padres – Another Starter
The Padres also have a very complete team, but they could use another starter. Injuries have made the rotation underperform their very high expectations, and so adding another starter couldn’t hurt, especially if everyone isn’t staying healthy.
Possible Fits: Kyle Gibson (TEX), German Marquez (COL), Sonny Gray (CIN)
San Francisco Giants – Second Base, Outfield
I see it very unlikely that the Giants make any move at all. Yet if they do, they need to add another bat. Second base and outfield would be great fits if they do decide to make a move.
Possible Fits: Adam Frazier (PIT), Ketel Marte (ARI), Mitch Haniger (SEA), Robbie Grossman (DET)
St. Louis Cardinals – Bullpen Arms
The Cardinals are in a weird spot as well. They have a below average record but may have a talented enough squad to sneak into the wild card. They need help with pitchers in general, but the bullpen is priority one.
Possible Fits: Richard Rodriguez (PIT), Daniel Bard (COL), Drew Smyly (ATL)
Washington Nationals – Young Pitchers
The Nationals will not be competing for a playoff spot this year, but the offense is too talented to tear down the team completely. With that being said, Washington needs to be smart and make moves that can improve pitching without decreasing offensive production.
Possible Fits: Edward Cabrera (MIA), Ryan Rolison (COL), Jackson Kowar (KCR)
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