MLB · 2 years ago

6 Starting Pitchers to Watch With Trade Deadline Looming

Ben DiGiacomo

Host · Writer

6 Starting Pitchers to Watch With Trade Deadline Looming

Starting pitching is always in demand at the MLB trade deadline, with these six pitchers worth keeping an eye on. We also ranked the top relievers on the market.

Top Starting Pitchers on the Trade Market

1. Blake Snell (San Diego Padres): If the Padres decide to sell, Snell, with his excellent 2.67 ERA and recent top form, would be the most desirable pitcher on the market. His potential move would significantly impact the league’s dynamic, particularly for the Orioles and Dodgers, who are likely suitors.

2. Lucas Giolito (Chicago White Sox): Despite the White Sox’s poor performance, Giolito has been a beacon of consistency. While he wouldn’t be too expensive, his stability could be invaluable to a team needing solid pitching, such as the Dodgers or Rays.

Giolito Traded to Los Angeles Angels

3. Marcus Stroman (Chicago Cubs): The ambiguity surrounding the Cubs’ trade deadline plans makes Stroman’s future uncertain. However, his solid 3.09 ERA and potential opt-out make him a strong target for the Rangers (who need to replace Jacob deGrom) or Reds if the Cubs decide to sell.

4. Eduardo Rodriguez (Detroit Tigers): Rodriguez was having a stellar season until injury sidelined him. Nevertheless, his early-season form could make him an appealing buy-low option for teams, particularly the Dodgers or Orioles, who should be buyers at the deadline.

5. Michael Lorenzen (Detroit Tigers): Lorenzen’s impressive campaign would make him an attractive buy-low option at the deadline. His versatility could be a real asset for a contender needing rotational depth, such as the Reds or Dodgers.

Traded to the Philadelphia Phillies

6. Jordan Montgomery (St. Louis Cardinals): Montgomery has been a bright spot despite the Cardinals’ difficult season. His consistency could make him valuable for teams looking to solidify their rotation, such as the Giants or Rangers.