With the August 3 trade deadline approaching, several MLB teams are evaluating their rosters and potential moves. The Boston Red Sox, who were previously struggling with a 32-46 record, have improved to 55-50, positioning themselves as potential contenders. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers are facing increasing pressure regarding their ace pitcher, Tarik Skubal.
The Tigers are reportedly reluctant to trade Skubal due to potential fan and player backlash. However, after dropping three consecutive games to teams with losing records and now being seven games below .500 themselves, the organization may find itself with no alternative but to trade him. This decision could also involve trading their number two starter, Casey Mize, as part of a strategy to build for the future.
The Milwaukee Brewers are among the teams that could be interested in acquiring Skubal. While they possess the prospects and financial flexibility, there is a reported hesitation within the organization to pursue Skubal, as they may not believe he is the sole solution to their needs. The Brewers are said to be looking for a power bat, another late-inning reliever, and a solid number three starter.
The Chicago White Sox, despite a 10-11 record this month, have maintained their lead in the AL Central. They are reportedly not planning an aggressive approach at the deadline, aiming to avoid trading away top prospects that could lead to another rebuild. However, they might consider acquiring a pitcher with team control, such as Reid Detmers, if the opportunity arises. Detmers is considered one of the most valuable trade assets on the market, with multiple years of team control and potential as an ace.
The New York Mets are also contemplating moves, particularly concerning Francisco Lindor. Despite his significant contract, Lindor was not listed among the untouchable players by the president of baseball operations. While a trade is considered likely for the organization’s long-term benefit, it may not happen immediately due to financial complexities and potential hesitancy from other teams regarding his contract, especially with a possible lockout looming.
Other players who could be on the move include Jarren Duran of the Red Sox, who has been struggling this year but could be part of a package deal for a right-handed bat. The Los Angeles Angels, under interim general manager John Mozeliak, appear more open to trading players with multiple years of control, making Detmers a key asset. The Tampa Bay Rays might consider trading former top prospect Carson Williams, who is still 23 years old and could be used to acquire a catcher or an outfielder.
The Houston Astros have a realistic trade chip in Shawn Blubaugh, a 26-year-old pitcher who has drawn interest from multiple teams. Blubaugh has five more seasons of team control and can be converted back into a starter. The White Sox also have a prospect in George Carlson, a shortstop drafted in 2025, who could be moved to bolster the club with pitching. The Cleveland Guardians might trade Bo Naylor, a catcher who has been sent back to Triple-A. The Colorado Rockies could move Mickey Moniak, a 28-year-old outfielder who will be a free agent after next season. The Baltimore Orioles might trade Anthony Ward, an impending free agent who has been one of their best hitters.
The New York Yankees, with the second-best record in the American League at 60-46, are looking to address various needs despite having a strong rotation. The San Diego Padres are uncertain about trading their All-Star closer Mason Miller, who is under control through 2029, but may trade setup man Adrian Morejon, who is a free agent after the season.
Source: eu.usatoday.com
