Here’s a breakdown of the MLB trade deadline situation based on the provided text:
Priority: A right-handed bat due to left-handed pitching and the 28th overall draft pick.
Cedric Mullins (CF): Potential free agent,had a hot start but has cooled significantly (.182 AVG, .554 OPS since April 28). Defensive metrics have also declined. Still might have value due to a shortage of center fielders.
Ramón Laureano (OF): More attractive than Mullins (.273 AVG, 14 HR, .844 OPS). acquisition cost will be higher as the Orioles have a $6.5 million club option for him and may wont him to return.
Ryan O’Hearn (1B/OF): In a cold spell (.212 AVG, 3 HR, .643 OPS since May 27). Could be a rental option for teams like the Red Sox if other targets are unavailable.
Pitchers: No reservations about trading potential free-agent starting pitchers (Charlie Morton, Zach Eflin, Tomoyuki Sugano). Kyle Bradish and Tyler wells are returning from injuries, and younger pitchers could emerge.
Minnesota Twins:
Interest: Teams are highly interested in their pitching.
Front Office Caution: Proceeding with caution due to the looming sale of the club. Available Pitchers: Listening on relievers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax, and ace right-hander Joe Ryan. All are under club control for two more seasons.
Pablo López (RHP): Some teams wonder if he could be moved, though he’s still weeks away from returning from injury.He’s under contract through 2027. He’s more likely to be an offseason topic.
Pressure: The front office is under pressure due to the team’s potential to miss the playoffs for the fourth time in five years and the upcoming change in ownership.
Cincinnati Reds & San Francisco Giants:
Opportunity: A rival executive believes they should be aggressive buyers for the third NL wild card spot, as the San Diego Padres’ hold on it is uncertain.
San Diego Padres: Have struggled recently (4 straight losses, poor record since the break). The GM may lack the financial resources and farm system for major additions. They are currently one game ahead of the Reds and Giants.
St. Louis cardinals: Preparing to sell.
san Francisco Giants: Plan to buy, targeting a second baseman and a starting pitcher.
* cincinnati Reds: Targeting a middle-of-the-order bat and bullpen help.
