MLB Rumors: Could the Braves trade for Marcus Stroman?
The Atlanta Braves' biggest hole, at least right now, is in the rotation. They could use another starting pitcher. There are not many of them available and the market, which forced the Los Angeles Angels to pay a premium for Lucas Giolito on Wednesday night.
One starter who has been heavily discussed in trade rumors is Chicago Cubs right-hander Marcus Stroman.
He would certainly fit the Braves' need for another starting pitcher and they should be able to fit the remainder of his salary on the 2023 payroll. He has a $21 million player option for the 2024 season, which complicates his value. But even then, the Cubs are surging right now and there is a prevailing thought that the team could elect to buy (perhaps a reliever and third baseman) instead of selling.
Which would mean Stroman stays put in Chicago. The thought surely would be intriguing for Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos, who was with Stroman in Toronto. But the fit is highly unlikely to result in a trade.
Grading the fit: 4/10.
MLB Rumors: Dodgers trying to trade for Nolan Arenado
The first big rumor of the 2023 trade deadline and it's a doozy. Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times reported that the Dodgers were engaged with the St. Louis Cardinals in talks on a trade that would send eight-time All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado to Los Angeles.
On the surface, Arenado would make a TON of sense with the Dodgers. He'd give them another superstar and fill the third base position long-term.
But every indication out of St. Louis has been that the Cardinals will not trade Arenado and that the star third baseman wants to be in St. Louis. Heck, he opted into the remainder of his nine-year, $275 million contract with the team this past offseason and will be in St. Louis until 2028. The deal also includes a full no-trade clause. Does that sound like a player who wants to be traded?
No.
Surely the teams will continue to talk. But a deal seems unlikely at best.
Grading the fit: 5/10.
MLB Rumors: Could the Rays trade for Eduardo Rodriguez?
The Tampa Bay Rays are casting a wide net in their search for starting pitching, sources say, and have done the same in the bullpen market.
One option to fill the rotation could be Eduardo Rodriguez, who has had a resurgent season with the Detroit Tigers, and has extensive experience pitching in the American League East.
It remains to be seen if the Rays have the financial means to take on the remaining three years, $49 million on his contract. It also should be noted that he can opt out of that deal after the season, something that appears likely, and that further complicates his value. I think, for that reason, it could make a deal tough to facilitate. But I like the fit here.
Grading the fit: 6/10.