Latest news with #tradeblock
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
3 Guardians who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline
The post 3 Guardians who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline appeared first on ClutchPoints. Losing seven games in a row is tough for any MLB team. However, the timing of this string of losses couldn't have come at a worse time for the Cleveland Guardians. The team has fallen even further behind the AL Central leading Detroit Tigers. Currently, they are tied with the Minnesota Twins at 12.5 games back. After the success of manager Stephen Vogt's first season in 2024, this season has been much more trying. Advertisement Currently four games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, there is certainly a chance that Cleveland can get hot and make a run. They've done it plenty of times in the past, including last season. So, would general manager Mike Chernoff and the rest of the Guardians' brass decided to supplement the roster, like they did in 2024? Or would the better choice be to sell off some pieces and instead focus on 2026 and beyond? Despite the team's current standing, there are plenty of players would interest suitors. Cleveland's bullpen, for instance, features multiple arms that would intrigue contenders, like Cade Smith and Emmanuel Clase. The outfield could be another area in which they make a subtraction, as the minors have players waiting to come up. Yet, the most painful move could involve beloved first baseman Carlos Santana. Would that help Cleveland improve long-term? Let's take a look at who could use Santana and how that can help Chernoff, Vogt and the Guardians leadership? Trading Carlos Santana would be tough blow for Guardians once again Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images Santana spent 10 of his first 11 major league seasons in Cleveland, with 2018 being the lone year he spent elsewhere (with the Philadelphia Phillies). After the 2020 season, he left for a division rival in the Kansas City Royals. Over the next four seasons, he played for the Royals and four other teams. This offseason he decided to come back to Progressive Field to likely wind down his career. That is a decision that has so far benefitted both parties quite nicely. Advertisement However, if Chernoff and Vogt decide to make the decision to tear it down, then moving Santana wouldn't be surprising. They already have a replacement in Kyle Manzardo, the current designated hitter. At the moment, Manzardo is the likely long-term solution, although the team has a couple other solid options in the minors. So, trading Santana could be something that brings them back a long-term piece or two to help. They could go out and acquire a veteran starting pitcher to help in the rotation, or perhaps a young arm in the minors that is on the cusp. There are plenty of arms out there who fit those descriptions, and more. Dealing Santana could help them either reload in the playoff hunt or build for the future. In fact, all three names on this list, including a recent trade acquisition, could fit these criteria as well. Lane Thomas could no longer have future role with Guardians Coming over from the Washington Nationals in a trade at last year's MLB trade deadline, Thomas helped spur the Guardians during their AL Championship Series (ALCS) run last year. It was a shrewd pickup from Chernoff and his staff, and helped solve their outfield woes to an extent. However, this year has been more of a struggle for the center fielder. Advertisement Thomas has dealt with injuries and is hitting just .163 on the season over 123 at-bats. His regression has been one of many across the team, as the offense isn't nearly as productive as they were in 2024. Losing former first baseman Josh Naylor certainly stung, and so did second baseman Andres Gimenez. Now, with Johnathan Rodriguez making his debut in the majors this year, the Guardians could already have their replacement. Now the question is what should they target in a deal for Thomas? Dealing Emmanuel Clase would send shockwaves through Guardians, MLB Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images At the moment, Cleveland's bullpen is still likely the strongest unit on the team. Led by Clase, Smith and setup man Hunter Gaddis, the Guardians have numerous options who can close out a game. Of course, Clase is still considered to be the best closer in baseball, so naturally most of those save opportunities end up in his hands. Yet Smith and Gaddis have shown the ability in their limited opportunities to also slam the door from time to time. Advertisement As crazy as it sounds, moving Clase wouldn't be the worst idea. Especially if Cleveland continues to slide down the standings and shifts their focus to a possible rebuild. There are certainly arguments for keeping Clase as well, especially if they are chasing yet another shot at postseason glory. If the Guardians can turn it around and make it back to October, then perhaps a trade of Clase would be the move that galvanizes a roster that could sorely use a jump start as the trade deadline approaches. Related: Guardians' José Ramírez hits unfortunate low vs. Cubs Related: Why Guardians' Luis Ortiz is under investigation
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
3 Angels who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline
The post 3 Angels who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Los Angeles Angels are having another rough season, currently sitting in fourth place in the American League West with a 35-37 record. The Angels are in a situation where a full-scale rebuild is likely, and might require them to put players on the trade block ahead of the MLB trade deadline. Advertisement The Halos have many players who will become free agents at the end of the season. Thus, they will have to make some decisions. The Angels might benefit from trading some players away. If they are not going to contend for a playoff spot, then trading off assets for future picks will be more effective. With the youth movement in Anaheim already underway, there appears to be a new attitude among the Angels. But for the Angels to ever be competitive again, they may have to shed some contracts. Notably, three players should be on the Angels' trade block, which could benefit both parties. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports The Angels should trade Tyler Anderson The Halos acquired Tyler Anderson in late 2022, shocking everyone after turning down the Los Angeles Dodgers' efforts to re-sign him. So far, it's been mixed results for the veteran starter. Advertisement Anderson is 18-21 with a 4.04 ERA in his two-plus seasons with the Angels. While he has been a steady middle-of-the-rotation guy for the Halos, he does not figure to be in the team's long-term plans. Anderson will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. Therefore, the prudent thing for the Angels to do would be to send Anderson to a contender who might utilize him for the postseason run. The Cleveland Guardians could be an ideal trading partner. Significantly, the Halos could get a top 25 prospect plus a reserve infielder in exchange for Anderson. The Angels must jump on the opportunity to recoup some value for Anderson before the trade deadline passes. Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Put Kenley Jansen on the trade block Two seasons ago, the Angels traded a closer at the MLB trade deadline. Now, there is a possibility it might happen again. When they signed Kenley Jansen to a one-year contract, there was always the possibility they might flip him at the trade deadline. Advertisement Putting Jansen on the trade block is ideal because he is still valuable, and could help a contender in need of bullpen arms in the playoff race. Additionally, he recently accomplished a career milestone, showing that he can still produce results as a late-inning reliever. Jansen is 37 years old and is unlikely to be part of the Halos' plans. Despite the Angels' struggles, Jansen has done well when called upon, notching 14 saves. If the Angels are serious about becoming a contender down the line, they must trade Jensen. The Philadelphia Phillies are a team that is in dire need of a closer who can shut the door, as they lead the league with 13 blown saves. Also, Jordan Romano has not been good for them, going 0-3 with a 6.84 ERA with eight saves versus two blown saves. For Jansen, Halos could get a high-level prospect reliever from the minor leagues, plus a lower-tier prospect. Then, both prospects can make significant strides and help the Angels get back to contention within a few years. Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Trading Taylor Ward before the trade deadline Taylor Ward is headed for arbitration and could be on the move soon. It might be the season where the Angels finally make a move and send Ward to another team. So far, he is batting .211 with 18 home runs, 49 RBIs, and 38 runs. Advertisement Ward's batting average is low, but the power tells a different story. According to Baseball Savant, Ward's barrel percentage is in the 85th percentile, which is good. His chase percentage is in the 88th percentile. While there has been some inconsistency, he has demonstrated that he can crack the barrel of the bat and be an impact hitter. If Ward continues his pace, he has a legitimate shot at smacking over 30 home runs and over 90 RBIs, which would be a career high. As a result, his value is higher than ever. The Angels could logically shoot for a top-100 prospect, mid-round prospects, and a lower-tier MLB player. A team like the Kansas City Royals might be interested at the MLB trade deadline, as they are looking for a corner outfielder. The Toronto Blue Jays might also be a trade partner, as they are actively contending for a playoff spot and sorely lacking outfielders. The Angels could also prevent repeating past mistakes, as this time, they will get all the value they can from a player, instead of letting them walk away for nothing. Related: Angels' Christian Moore makes immediate highlight in MLB debut vs. Yankees
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
3 Rockies who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline
The post 3 Rockies who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Colorado Rockies have been the worst team in baseball this season and are on pace to shatter the record the Chicago White Sox set last season. Thus, it is another season down the drain, and it feels like a hopeless cause. But there is still something they can salvage out of this season. The Rockies must rebuild their farm system, which is among the worst in baseball. Ryan McMahon, German Marquez, and Austin Gomber must be on the trade block for the Rockies to have a chance to build a prosperous future. Advertisement Being in a loaded division like the National League West is not easy. Therefore, the Rockies have to take the long road back and rebuild. If they ever want to compete with the Los Angeles Dodgers over the long haul, then they need to build back better. It will be painful, but it's something Colorado must do. McMahon, Marquez, and Gomber offer valuable trade pieces that the Rockies can ship out. If they can find trade partners, then they might be able to rise up in the farm system rankings. Ryan McMahon provides the best trade value for Rockies McMahon should be the first player on the trade block. Yes, he has been one of the most recognizable players on the Rockies over the years, as he has been with the team since they drafted him in 2013. McMahon is a fan favorite and has been a very productive hitter for Colorado since he made his debut in 2017. Yet, even he might be gone soon. Advertisement The New York Yankees have reportedly expressed interest in McMahon. Significantly, a trade to the Yanks makes sense, especially considering DJ LeMahieu's struggles. It would also give New York a reliable left-handed bat in a ballpark that fits lefties well. Currently, McMahon's value ranges from mid to high, depending on the trade partner. Ideally, the Rockies would love a team to take on his remaining salary, which extends into next season, and give them some good prospects. A good trade for McMahon to the Yankees would involve New York sending Clayton Beeter, an MLB-ready starter, Jorbit Vivas, a utility player who can play second or third base, and Jackson Fristoe, a high-A level starter who could contribute within 1-2 years. This deal would benefit both teams, as the Yankees would acquire their hitter, and the Rockies would gain a younger team and some new pitching. German Marquez still has upside © Brad Mills-Imagn Images German Marquez also needs to be on the trade block. No, he is not performing to the level that makes him an elite commodity. But there is always a team that might need a middle-of-the-rotation pitcher, and pitching away from Coors Field could help. Advertisement Marquez has not been the best pitcher, but he still accomplished a franchise record earlier this season. Ultimately, there will be a market for him. His value is not nearly as high as McMahon's, but a team will take a flyer on him. Only the return value will not be the best. For the Rockies, all that matters is shedding contracts and getting some kind of return that helps them in the future. Marquez, like McMahon, has been a lifelong Rockies player. Despite being signed internationally by the Tampa Bay Rays, he has spent his entire Major League career with Colorado. His contract is up after this season. The Rockies could expect to get a B-Level prospect or a future third or fifth-round pick. Also, a mid-tier prospect is a possibility. Teams like the Milwaukee Brewers might be willing to negotiate. Austin Gomber could be on the trade block Despite just making his season debut for the Rockies, Gomber should also be on the trade block. For reference, he is signed until the end of the season, making him an unrestricted free agent. Let's look at the numbers. Advertisement Gomber has not performed particularly well since coming over in the trade for Nolan Arenado. Alarmingly, his ERA has fluctuated between 4.50 and 5.50. But because he is a pending free agent, the Rockies could try to deal him to get something of value back. The good news is that Gomber had a stout outing in his season debut, tossing five shutout innings while striking out four. If he can keep the pace, the Rockies can turn that into a goldmine. For now, a realistic trade scenario could see the Rockies shipping Gomber off for a C-level return. That would usually constitute a middle-round pick and an extra reliever. While it's unlikely, sending Gomber to a team that needs extra pitching could help them secure an extra pick, which would further their rebuild. Related: Rockies' Hunter Goodman reveals pregame change that sparked hot streak Related: Rockies keep streak alive with big win over Nationals
New York Times
25-06-2025
- Sport
- New York Times
Where will all the goalies go? Breaking down the NHL's upcoming moves in net
With all of the hockey world's attention on Mitch Marner, teams needing centers and defensemen, and the Florida Panthers getting obliterated at the Elbo Room, one thing we haven't had time to talk about all that much is what's happening in goal around the league. Though there might not be as big of names available in net in free agency this year, there is still likely going to be a lot of movement. By my count, two teams potentially need a new starter and at least another six need to sign a backup. Advertisement At least eight established goalies, meanwhile, are either on the trade block or buyout/demotion candidates. And there are 10 experienced netminders who are UFAs and another nine who are set to become RFAs on July 1. Add it up, and there could be quite the game of musical chairs happening in NHL creases over the next few weeks. To make sense of it all, here's my goalie big board for 2025. Slots marked in blue are pending RFAs. Those in red are trade, buyout or demotion candidates. And orange indicates a clear-cut opening at the position. This isn't an exact science, as some of those I've listed as No. 3s could end up with the backup role, and some of those as No. 2s could end up getting supplanted by a free-agent signing or trade acquisition. But after talking to some people around the league, I think this represents a decent portrait of where things stand. Let's further break these teams down into separate groups, with a bit more information on the most interesting clubs at the bottom. Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, Chicago Blackhawks, Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, New York Islanders, New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues, Tampa Bay Lightning, Toronto Maple Leafs, Utah Mammoth, Washington Capitals, Winnipeg Jets That's 16 teams, or half the league, where there's probably not a lot to see. In some cases, such as Detroit, they could make a move, but with other needs more pressing, I wouldn't bet on it. There are some unknowns here, such as Connor Ingram's health status with Utah, and how some young goalies such as Jesper Wallstedt will fare, but for the most part, these feel like teams unlikely to make a major change. Anaheim Ducks, Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, Los Angeles Kings, Montreal Canadiens, New Jersey Devils, Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, Seattle Kraken, Vancouver Canucks, Vegas Golden Knights Advertisement Some of these teams have big names on trade boards right now, but they don't have to make a move. John Gibson in Anaheim, for example, is down to two years left on his deal, has been supplanted as the No. 1 and has been in trade talks for years. Could it finally happen, as general manager Pat Verbeek gets aggressive? Yes. But it doesn't have to. Similarly, the Penguins, Kraken and Canucks all have veterans with big contracts who have struggled and could get moved or bought out in Tristan Jarry, Philipp Grubauer and Thatcher Demko, but there is no significant pressure on those GMs to do so. Buffalo, Montreal, New Jersey, Ottawa and Vegas, meanwhile, need to decide whether they feel like their younger backups are enough or whether they need to dip into the free-agent market for more help. Both the Panthers and Kings need a UFA backup to spell their aging No. 1. And Calgary needs a veteran to relieve rising star Dustin Wolf from time to time. Two consecutive runs to the Stanley Cup Final. Two losses to a Panthers team that has a likely Hall of Famer in net. It feels time for a rethink for the Oilers in goal, but what do you do? Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard are signed cheaply, and Edmonton isn't flush with cap space given the need to sign Evan Bouchard. It is going to attempt to ship out some underperformers, including likely one of the netminders, but getting the new addition right is pivotal. Signing Jake Allen feels like one possibility, but he turns 35 in August and likely commands a three-year deal at more than $10 million total. None of the other UFA goalies would seem to be No. 1 material for a Cup contender, so the trade route could be another avenue to pursue. The Flyers are in the unique situation of having three goalies signed … and not wanting to rely on any of them after a really tough season in goal. Samuel Ersson was their top option with an .883 save percentage, but Russians Ivan Fedotov and Aleksei Kolosov feel destined for the AHL (or KHL) this season. Advertisement Philadelphia has the cap room to make something happen here. Perhaps it's the right fit for Allen? Or maybe it goes big on a trade for someone like Gibson, Demko or one of the Edmonton goalies? Definitely a team to watch as they continue to be heavily in the trade and free-agent mix after acquiring Trevor Zegras earlier this week. The future in the Sharks crease is Yaroslav Askarov's. But is he ready to be their No. 1 of the present? The 23-year-old No. 11 pick in 2020 performed ably in the AHL last season with the Barracuda and was fine in the 13 games he played in the NHL. But taking on a bigger load on a rebuilding club like San Jose could be a lot to ask, even with his considerable pedigree and upside. Committing to Allen likely doesn't make sense at this point given his age and the need for term, so we suspect the Sharks will invest in a UFA veteran like Dan Vladar, Anton Forsberg or David Rittich who can tandem with Askarov and show him the ropes. It appears time might be up for Elvis Merzlikins after his prolonged struggles (plus some drama) and the emergence of Jet Greaves. (There's more on that from our CBJ beat writer, Aaron Portzline, here.) The Blue Jackets only missed the playoffs by 2 points last season and likely would have made it with better showings from Merzlikins (.892 save percentage) and Daniil Tarasov (.881). Greaves had an outstanding season last year in the AHL and in 11 games with Columbus and now will be waiver eligible, but how much can it rely on him next season? And what should it do with Merzlikins and Tarasov, assuming it can't find takers in a trade? Alexandar Georgiev, Alex Lyon, James Reimer, Ilya Samsonov, Vitek Vanecek (Top photo of John Gibson and Jake Allen: Steve Roberts / Imagn Images and Elsa / Getty Images)
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
3 Reds who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline
The post 3 Reds who must be on trade block ahead of 2025 deadline appeared first on ClutchPoints. As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Cincinnati Reds face a pivotal moment in shaping both their present playoff push and their long-term outlook. With a roster blending rising stars and seasoned veterans, the Reds must weigh whether to buy, sell, or strike a balance. To truly maximize their chances this year and beyond, Cincinnati should consider moving a few active roster players whose value could net meaningful returns. Here are three Reds who must be on the trade block ahead of the 2025 deadline. Noelvi Marte Aaron Doster-Imagn Images Noelvi Marte's time in Cincinnati has been anything but straightforward. Once the crown jewel of the Luis Castillo trade, Marte flashed elite potential in his 2023 debut, posting a .316 average and showing off his power-speed combination. However, a PED suspension in 2024 halted his momentum, and upon his return, he struggled to find his footing, batting just .210 with a subpar walk rate and a concerning 31% strikeout rate. Advertisement The 2025 season began with Marte in Triple-A after a disappointing spring, but a recent surge, hitting .316/.386/.474 gave him his chance in the lineup where he has been batting .294/.342/.515 with 3 home runs and 17 RBIs before was placed on the disabled list. This has reignited his trade value, and with the Reds' infield logjam, he is a major factor in considering a move. With Elly De La Cruz entrenched at shortstop, Matt McLain and Gavin Lux competing for second base, and Jeimer Candelario at third, Marte's future fit in Cincinnati is unclear. Add in the rapid rise of prospects like Cam Collier and Sal Stewart, and the case for moving Marte grows even stronger. Trading Marte now, while his value is rebounding, could help the Reds address other needs, such as pitching depth or outfield production. His youth, upside, and years of team control would appeal to rebuilding clubs or teams looking for a high-ceiling infielder, making him one of the most intriguing trade chips on the roster. Nick Martinez Nick Martinez was brought in to provide rotation depth and veteran stability, and he's largely delivered on that promise. With a one-year deal and a solid track record as both a starter and reliever, Martinez has drawn interest from contenders seeking reliable arms for the stretch run. His versatility, capable of starting or pitching out of the bullpen, makes him a valuable asset for any playoff-bound team. Advertisement For the Reds, Martinez's value lies in his expiring contract and the potential return he could fetch. With Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Brady Singer anchoring the rotation, Cincinnati could afford to move Martinez if it means shoring up weaknesses elsewhere, particularly in the bullpen or outfield. The Yankees and other contenders have reportedly shown interest, viewing Martinez as a plug-and-play solution for rotation gaps. Dealing Martinez would not only clear salary but also open opportunities for younger pitchers to step into bigger roles. The Reds could target prospects or controllable big-league talent in return, helping to balance their roster for both the present and future. With his contract set to expire and his value peaking, Martinez is a logical candidate to be moved before the deadline. Austin Hays Acquired to bolster the outfield, Austin Hays has provided steady, if unspectacular, production for the Reds in 2025, especially with his stints on the Disabled List. With a contract running through 2026 and a reasonable salary, Hays is an appealing trade target for teams seeking a right-handed bat with defensive versatility. While he's been a useful piece, the Reds' outfield mix remains crowded, especially with TJ Friedl, Will Benson, and the potential for young prospects to earn more playing time. Advertisement Hays' track record as a league-average hitter and solid defender gives him value on the market, particularly for clubs in need of outfield depth. For Cincinnati, moving Hays could free up at-bats for younger players and create roster flexibility, while also bringing back a useful arm or prospect. His affordable contract enhances his trade appeal, making him a prime candidate to be dealt if the Reds look to retool on the fly. With the Reds' offense struggling for consistency and the team hovering around .500, trading Hays could help them address more pressing needs without sacrificing their playoff hopes. His departure would not cripple the lineup, and the return could help solidify the roster for a late-season push. As the trade deadline nears, the Reds must make tough decisions to optimize both their current roster and future competitiveness. Noelvi Marte, Nick Martinez, and Austin Hays represent three active roster players whose trade value could help Cincinnati address key weaknesses, acquire young talent, or clear the way for emerging stars. By moving these players, the Reds can remain competitive in 2025 while building a stronger foundation for the seasons ahead. Related: MLB rumors: 1 team that could shock league before trade deadline
