As the trade deadline comes closer in just a few short days, the murky and cloudy trade market starts to come into focus. Trading has picked up of late, with smaller deals (the swapping of minor league pitchers between New York and Florida) and larger deals (Tim Salmon for a kings ransom). As we near the end, here are a few tiers of teams:
Most Active
Chicago White Sox – feels like all trading goes through them. Active early in the season grabbing guys and now active in flipping some of them again, the White Sox haven’t made their big jump this season. That being said, they’ve got pieces people want an an owner actively trying to move. Over/under on trades before deadline: 2.5
Toronto Blue Jays – just as active in talking to owners, it sounds like ownership has been in touch with just about everyone. Looking to get creative in the kind of moves they make, it appears as though he’s looking to prioritize pitching in all talks. Over/under on trades before deadline: 2.5
San Diego Padres – never count him out on moves, he’s looking to move everyone over 30 and/or on expiring deals. Some tough sells (Canseco, etc), but really no reason why guys like Teddy Higuera, Darryl Hamilton, etc. Can someone make an offer for Jim Edmonds? Maybe. Over/under on trades before deadline: 3.5
Chicago Cubs – despite not nearly hitting expectations this season, they’re looking to keep the band mostly together, making available some pieces on the outside. Jeff D Robinson is the most intriguing, but how many contenders need starting pitcher? The market is led by Robinson and Higuera, with no one else really standing out. Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
Moderately Active
Orlando Devil Rays – feels like he’s made his big moves, but being active never goes away. Plenty of time for some smaller moves despite not really having picks for the next couple of seasons. Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
St. Louis Cardinals – in the market for a fourth outfielder and probably a pitcher, I guarantee at least one deal gets done here, if not two (Higuera would be a strong fit here). Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
Washington Senators – has been quiet in the marketplace but not quiet in the DMs. On the hunt for good relievers, he’s waiting out the market given the number of sellers Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
Florida Marlins – never count out the original trader, there remain significant holes in this outfield. Fans won’t stand for this team standing idly by. Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
Boston Red Sox – third worst record in the league and struggling for consistency, this team needs to do something. They’ve got some pieces that they’re selling low on, but should help others. Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
Texas Rangers – active and unafraid, they went big on Caminiti and are poised for more moves. Don’t own their own 1st round pick for three seasons, they’ve got big incentive to push for a playoff spot. Over/under on trades before deadline: 1.5
Least Active
Everyone else – put at 1 trade or less.