Although the climax of trade talks has subsided now that Jon Lester was finally dealt, there are still a number of names out there that can provide help to various teams. There are plentiful starters and relievers who are currently involved in trade discussions.
David Price headlines those on the trading block. Rays general manager Andrew Friedman will not hesitate to trade the team's ace if the proper opportunity arises, despite the team's resurgence into playoff contention. Price will be a free agent at the end of the year and Tampa Bay cannot afford to sign him to a long-term contract, so Friedman is likely exploring his options until the 4 p.m. deadline. The Cardinals, Mariners, Dodgers, Brewers, and Pirates are reportedly interested in the ace. Price expressed some humor about his situation on Twitter.
Other starters that might be up for grabs include Boston's John Lackey, San Diego's Ian Kennedy, and Bartolo Colon of the New York Mets. Lackey has attracted interest from the Kansas City Royals and Miami Marlins, according to sources, and the Red Sox are willing to trade him. The 35-year-old is a solid arm, amassing a 21-20 record with a 3.55 ERA over the past two seasons and has shown his worth in the postseason, which could be of great value to a contender.
Bartolo Colon (10-8 with a 3.88 ERA) is currently under a two-year $20 million contract with the Mets, and New York has said they are willing to pay $2 million of whatever is left on his salary if a trade were to be completed. The Orioles are the latest team to express interest. Similarly, San Diego's Ian Kennedy has garnered interest from a number of teams, but the Padres aren't sure they'll trade him. The Yankees, Marlins, Pirates, and Royals are interested in the 29-year-old right hander, according to Ken Rosthental.
As for relievers, the Padres are considering moving closer Jaoquin Benoit (who is owed $8 million next season), while other teams out of playoff contention including the Red Sox, Twins, and Phillies are contemplating a trade for some of their bullpen guys. Boston's Andrew Miller could be dealt to the Royals, Minnesota's Brian Duensing is 'drawing interest' according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press, and Philadelphia's Antonio Bastardo could land in Detroit.
Keep up with the latest news on ESPN's MLB Rumors page.
