The MLB Trade Deadline is rapidly approaching, coming in about two weeks at the end of the month. As a result, trade rumors are flying across the league as talks heat up. But which contending teams are the most ready to buy at the trade deadline?
More than just five teams are willing to buy at the deadline, but these are the top teams ready to deal. The list is in alphabetical order.
Boston Red Sox
Boston has already been heavily linked to White Sox 3B Todd Frazier and that's a logical deal for both sides, if they can agree on terms. Don't rule out Boston getting some bullpen help either, as that's been a trouble point of late. Fellow White Sox David Robertson is a good fit, so perhaps Boston goes after both players. If they miss out on Frazier, Boston has backup plans.
Houston Astros
The Astros have the best record in the American League, but they're still looking for help. At the top of their wish list is a top-tier starting pitching, with Sonny Gray the top target. Get him, and the Astros top-three rotation is terrifyingly good. Houston could also look for another set-up option. Houston is in the enviable position of a having a young core and still having a strong farm system. They'll likely compete for a few players with the next team on this list.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers always seems like trade deadline buyers and that's the case again this year. Bullpen help, especially a lefty reliever, is on the wish list. So, expect rumors around Zach Britton, Brad Hand and Justin Wilson. Of course, that's not all the Dodgers will at least take a look at. They'll be interested in the top starting pitchers, although the likes of Sonny Gray might end up too pricey. Los Angeles might not need another bat, but don't rule it out. With the best record in baseball, the Dodgers are in good shape.
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New York Yankees
The Yankees are cautious buyers this year, looking to add talent but not willing to sacrifice a budding farm system. They were in the mix for Jose Quintana, but the Cubs beat them on that front. Sonny Gray of the A's is a target, but do the Yankees really want to get into a bidding war? Starting pitching is a huge need right now for the Yankees, especially with Michael Pineda done for the year.
First base is also a need, with Chris Carter gone and Greg Bird hurt. Yonder Alonso has emerged as a target and he's a quality rental coming off an All-Star game berth. A third baseman, perhaps someone like Todd Frazier, is also a potential target for New York. Don't forget about another bullpen piece either.
Washington Nationals
Take your pick of a fifth team, since there are numerous options. But even after Washington added two bullpen arms just a few days ago, they might not be done wheeling and dealing yet. Neither Ryan Madson nor Sean Doolittle is a true shut-down ninth inning option, so the Nationals could still look for a true closer (David Robertson?). Plus, Trea Turner and three outfielders in Adam Eaton, Michael Taylor and Jayson Werth are on the DL. So, another bat (likely a cheaper one) is an option. Joe Ross also needs Tommy John, so getting a cheap fifth starter is also an option for the Nats.
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