This informal piece, written by AJ Stone ahead of the 2024 MLB trade deadline, showcases his understanding of the league as a whole while laying out a cohesive trade map. Some of these moves may have backfired; some may have made sense. Hindsight is 20/20; just enjoy the ride.
MLB Trade Deadline 2024
AL East:
Tampa Bay Rays:
Direction: Soft Sell
Current Record: 43-43
Goal: Compete in 2025
Players that should be moved:
Randy Arozarena, Amed Rosario, Zack Littell, Jason Adam
Trades:
Royals Receive: Jason Adam (RP)
Rays Receive: Daniel Vazquez (SS, KC #26)
Dodgers Receive: Randy Arozarena (OF)
Rays Receive: Jesus Tillero (SP, LAD #29), Chris Taylor (UTL)
Mets Receive: Zack Littell (RP/SP)
Rays Receive: Dedniel Nunez (RP), PTBNL
Red Sox Receive: Amed Rosario (UTL)
Rays Receive: David Hamilton (SS), Brandon Walter (SP, BOS #28)
Summary:
The Rays are gonna Ray. Like they’ve done many times before, they should identify the competitiveness of their own division and realize they aren’t in a position to buy and try to lock in a playoff berth. Knowing this and their usual lackluster payrolls, the Rays should trade away pieces that still have value that aren’t clear-cut parts of the future. Randy Arozarena is having a dreadful year, and it would be smart to cut ties with him before all value is gone. The Jason Adam move reminds me of the Andrew Kittredge move they made over the off-season. Bringing back a young position player with lots of team control that should be up by 2025/2026. Zack Littell has continued to snowball after his stellar start, and just like Arozarena, I think they should move on while they can. Amed Rosario is a veteran who should attract attention on the market with his utility skillset and league-average offense. He should be flipped for anything of value at all.
Toronto Blue Jays:
Direction: Soft Sell
Current Record: 39-48
Goal: Compete in 2025
Players that should be moved:
Yusei Kikuchi, Bo Bichette, Justin Turner, Chris Bassit
Trades:
Brewers Receive: Yusei Kikuchi (SP)
Blue Jays Receive: Bradley Blalock (SP, ML #17), Filippo Di Turi (SS/2B, ML #29)
Dodgers Receive: Bo Bichette (SS), Justin Turner (DH/1B)
Blue Jays Receive: Josue De Paula (OF, LAD #2), River Ryan (SP, LAD #4), Gavin Lux (SS/2B)
Red Sox Receive: Chris Bassit (SP)
Blue Jays Receive: Nick Yorke (2B, BOS #6)
Summary:
The Blue Jays are at a crossroads. Time to tear it all down? I think not. This team has been dependent on lackluster play from unproven players, and it’s been hidden behind the mirage of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette at their respective peaks. The Jays still haven’t been able to make up for the loss of production that Brandon Belt provided last year (they should’ve re-signed him), and it shows. Ernie Clement and Davis Schneider are everyday players, which means it’s time to retool a bit. Justin Turner is a no-brainer; he’s the perfect trade chip. It’s time to move on from Bo Bichette before he becomes a burden. Chris Bassit isn’t an arm a retooling team needs to hold onto, and I think he’d bring a solid return for the 2025 campaign. Yusei Kikuchi is currently throwing 99 from the left side and looking better than ever. That’s a player that needs to be flipped ASAP before he regresses to the mean. This team could easily compete in 2025 with a good offseason.
Boston Red Sox:
Direction: Soft Buy
Current Record: 47-39
Goal: Make WC
Players to target:
Chris Bassit, Matt Vierling, Paul Sewald, Amed Rosario, Lucas Erceg, Paul Dejong
Trades:
Red Sox Receive: Chris Bassit (SP)
Blue Jays Receive: Nick Yorke (2B, BOS #6)
Red Sox Receive: Matt Vierling (UTL)
Tigers Receive: Romy Gonzalez (UTL), Chase Anderson (SP/RP), PTBNL
Red Sox Receive: Paul Sewald (CP)
Diamondbacks Receive: David Sandlin (SP, BOS #14), PTBNL
Red Sox Receive: Amed Rosario (UTL)
Rays Receive: David Hamilton (SS), Brandon Walter (SP, BOS #28)
Red Sox Receive: Lucas Erceg (RP)
Athletics Receive: Josh Winckowski (RP), PTBNL
Red Sox Receive: Paul Dejong (SS/3B)
White Sox Receive: Enmanuel Valdez (2B/DH)
Summary:
How bout them Sox!?!? Out of nowhere, it seems the Red Sox have cemented themselves in the middle of the 2024 playoff race, and although I’ve not totally bought into this team, I love their dynamic and energy. I think it’s time the ownership gave back to the fans a bit. The division is out of reach. But a wildcard series at Fenway? That’s very real. Bringing in Chris Bassit to solidify an overachieving rotation would be the perfect segue into a “compete now” mentality for Boston. Nick Yorke is a great prospect, but with a pipeline of position players on the way, I think it’s worth the risk. Matt Vierling slots perfectly into a 1B/2B/DH role on this team, and his bat should play GREAT at Fenway, not to mention he’s a defensive upgrade from whatever they’re using now. Amed Rosario provides some veteran presence and a dependable bat and glove at 2B for an otherwise inexperienced club. Although the Sox have future Hall of Fame closer Kenley Jansen manning the 9th, he could definitely use some help. Adding Paul Sewald into a setup role from Arizona and snagging hard-throwing righty Lucas Erceg from the Athletics would turn this bullpen into an absolute weapon come postseason time. With some crazy matchup guys to play for, manager Alex Cora. Paul Dejong would be perfect for Fenway, and his defense might change the way Boston fans see the sport (they’ve never seen defense (Raffy hit ball)). Let’s hope DeJong doesn’t slip into oblivion after being traded to the AL East again.
New York Yankees:
Direction: Hard Buy
Current Record: 54-35
Goal: World Series
Players to target:
Michael Kopech, Nathaniel Lowe, Kirby Yates, Elias Diaz, Justin Lawrence, Abraham Toro, Andrew Nardi
Trades:
Yankees Receive: Michael Kopech (RP/CP)
White Sox Receive: Jack Neely (SP, NYY #24)
Yankees Receive: Nathaniel Lowe (1B), Kirby Yates (RP)
Rangers Receive: Will Warren (SP, NYY #7), Ben Rice (1B/C, NYY #12), Caleb Ferguson (RP)
Yankees Receive: Elias Diaz (C), Justin Lawrence (RP)
Rockies Receive: Brando Mayea (OF, NYY #9), Jake Cousins (RP), Jose Trevino (C), PTBNL
Yankees Receive: Abraham Toro (UTL)
Athletics Receive: Danny Watson (SP, NYY #27)
Yankees Receive: Andrew Nardi (RP)
Marlins Receive: Benjamin Cowles (INF, NYY #29), Cash Considerations
Summary:
Oh no! The Yankees are losing! 5-15 in their last 20? They must be awful! These are common misconceptions made by Yankee fans. This is a very solid team. However, some holes need to be addressed. This team needs a left-handed reliever. Matt Blake, meet Andrew Nardi. A nasty southpaw from out in Miami that should cost next to nothing in Yankee terms. Abraham Toro should add a consistent plug-and-play bat from a much-needed utility role to supplement for poor output from DJ Lemahieu and Gleyber Torres. I’m personally tired of two things. The Yankees catchers and the Rockies having Elias Diaz. Two birds with one stone by adding Diaz to the Bronx Bombers’ already powerful lineup. Oh, and Matt Blake would turn Justin Lawrence into Mariano Rivera’s Brad Ziegler interpretation. Michael Kopech adds some strikeout potential to the back of the pen. And my favorite trade by far adds my current RPOTY Kirby Yates and a hell of a first baseman in Nathaniel Lowe, who would ABUSE that short porch. This would run New York decent prospect capital, but the Yankees need a good year.
Baltimore Orioles:
Direction: Hard Buy
Current Record: 55-31
Goal: ALCS
Players to target:
David Bednar, Garret Crochet, Tanner Banks, Hunter Harvey, Mitch Spence
Trades:
Orioles Receive: Garret Crochet (SP), Tanner Banks (RP)
White Sox Receive: Heston Kjerstad (OF/DH), Connor Norby (2B/OF, BAL #5), Seth Johnson (SP, BAL #9), Keegan Akin (RP)
Orioles Receive: David Bednar (CP)
Pirates Receive: Dylan Beavers (OF, BAL #6)
Orioles Receive: Mitch Spence (SP)
Athletics Receive: Alex Pham (SP, BAL #23)
Orioles Receive: Hunter Harvey (RP)
Nationals Receive: Luis De Leon (SP, BAL #16)
Summary:
This Orioles team is so fun. But they could make an absolutely GRAVE mistake by going all in this year. Not all of these young guys are in their primes yet. Not to mention Jackson Holliday isn’t even at the big league level. I still want to see them add and try to make a deep playoff run. But please don’t sell out for one year. Garret Crochet would be this team’s immediate 2, and after adding him, the O’s top 3 in their rotation would be World Series caliber. Tanner Banks could provide solid lefty/lefty matchups with much better underlying numbers than his ERA. David Bednar is a buy-low player whose overall numbers have tanked his value, even though he’s been all but back to his normal self. Adding him now would be smart. Mitch Spence is the next Cole Irvin. He’s solid and could eat innings down to stretch to keep the Orioles fresh headed into the playoffs. Hunter Harvey needs to come back to Baltimore and get out of Washington. His stuff would be a great addition. The O’s could make some serious noise this year. But I’m more excited about what’s to come.
AL Central:
Chicago White Sox:
Direction: HARD sell
Current Record: 26-64
Goal: Replenish the farm system for the future
Players that need to be dealt:
Garret Crochet, Michael Kopech, Tanner Banks, Mike Clevinger, Luis Robert, Eloy Jimenez, Tommy Pham, Paul Dejong, Erick Fedde, Andrew Vaughn
Trades:
Orioles Receive: Garret Crochet, Tanner Banks
White Sox Receive: Heston Kjerstad (OF/DH), Connor Norby (2B/OF, BAL #5), Seth Johnson (SP, BAL #9), Keegan Akin (RP)
Yankees Receive: Michael Kopech (RP/CP)
White Sox Receive: Jack Neely (SP, NYY #24)
Royals Receive: Tommy Pham (OF), Eloy Jimenez (DH)
White Sox Receive: Gavin Cross (OF, KC #7), Will Klein (SP, KC #18), Hunter Renfroe (OF), Cash Considerations
Red Sox Receive: Paul Dejong (SS/3B)
White Sox Receive: Enmanuel Valdez (2B/DH)
Brewers Receive: Erick Fedde (SP)
White Sox Receive: Brett Wichrowski (SP, ML #14), PTBNL
Astros Receive: Mike Clevinger (SP), Andrew Vaughn (1B/DH)
White Sox Receive: Joey Loperfido (UTL), Trey Cabbage (OF/DH), Jacob Amaya (SS/2B, HOU #21)
Phillies Receive: Luis Robert
White Sox Receive: Andrew Painter (SP, PHI #1), Mick Abel (SP, PHI #5), Carlos De La Cruz (OF/1B, PHI #12)
Summary:
IT BURNS! IT BURNS! HELP ME! HELP! THE UNTOLD PROPHECY OF A PHARAOH BETRAYED BY HIS GODS! MERCILESS PAIN! HELP! (Goodbye to Luis, Mike, Andrew, Paul, Tommy, Michael, Garret, and Tanner)
Detroit Tigers:
Direction: Hold
Current Record: 40-48
Goal: WC Birth 2025
Players to trade:
Mark Canha, Jack Flaherty, Matt Vierling
Trades:
Guardians Receive: Mark Canha (OF/1B)
Tigers Receive: Daniel Schneeman (2B)
Dodgers Receive: Jack Flaherty
Tigers Receive: Kyle Hurt (SP/RP, LAD #5), Anthony Banda (RP)
Red Sox Receive: Matt Vierling (UTL)
Tigers Receive: Romy Gonzalez (UTL), Chase Anderson (SP/RP), PTBNL
Summary:
This team bores me. There isn’t a lot going on in Detroit, which makes sense after lending Javier Baez $100+ million. Jack Flaherty should be traded right now in a contract year at peak value. Mark Canha is the cookie-cutter position player that every team needs at the deadline, so go ahead and trade him. Matt Vierling isn’t a part of your future, so get something for him while you can. Plain and simple, Detroit won’t compete until Javier Baez comes off the books. Seriously Javy. Dude, not cool.
Kansas City Royals:
Direction: Buy
Current Record: 48-42
Goal: 2024 Wildcard
Players to target:
Jason Adam, Tommy Pham, Eloy Jimenez, Kyle Finnegan
Trades:
Royals Receive: Jason Adam (RP)
Rays Receive: Daniel Vazquez (SS, KC #26)
Royals Receive: Tommy Pham (OF), Eloy Jimenez (DH)
White Sox Receive: Gavin Cross (OF, KC #7), Will Klein (SP, KC #18), Hunter Renfroe (OF), Cash Considerations
Royals Receive: Kyle Finnegan (CP)
Nationals Receive: Javier Vaz (2B/OF, KC #15), Dairon Blanco (OF)
Summary:
Crazy how a team in this poor excuse for a division decided to add, and now they’re way better. Well, if it ain’t broke! Keep adding. Bobby Witt Jr. might go down as the greatest Royal of all time, so give him a shot to make his mark. Jason Adam is pure filth and could lock down some saves for a team that, frankly, doesn’t have a closer. But in reality, you need a bona fide guy to wear that closer title, and that’s where Kyle Finnegan comes in. He’s unbelievably underrated, which fits Kansas City perfectly, and he’d be electric in Royal Blue. Tommy Pham adds a much-needed outfield bat that’s very dependable and is fresh off a trip to the World Series in 2023. Eloy Jimenez should add some pop if he’s able to stay healthy.
Minnesota Twins:
Direction: Hold
Current Record: 49-39
Goal: Top WC Spot
Players to target:
Brent Rooker
Trades:
Twins Receive: Brent Rooker (DH)
Athletics Receive: Austin Martin (2B), Matt Canterino (SP, MN #13)
Summary:
I tried. I swear. This team has ZERO roster flexibility. I LOVE their bullpen. I like the offense. And the starting pitching is solid enough. They could use some more pop. Go ahead and add a little Brent to that Rooker, and we’ll see you next year, Minnesota.
Cleveland Guardians:
Direction: Soft Buy
Current Record: 54-32
Goal: Win Division
Players to target:
Mark Canha, Bailey Falter, Taylor Ward
Trades:
Guardians Receive: Mark Canha (OF/1B)
Tigers Receive: Daniel Schneeman (2B)
Guardians Receive: Bailey Falter (SP/RP)
Pirates Receive: C.J. Kayfus (1B, CLE #27)
Guardians Receive: Taylor Ward (OF), Brandon Drury (UTL), Cash Considerations
Angels Receive: Jhokensy Noel (OF/1B, CLE #25), Joey Cantillo (SP, CLE #10)
Summary:
The Guardians are basically the Rays if the Rays decided to be the 2024 Guardians. You get me? No? Neither do I, but this team is good. The bullpen is DEVASTATING. CADE SMITH. Cade Smith. And the offense has been surprisingly good. Likely due to the David (The Mad Hatter) Fry’s breakout. Adding Bailey Falter to eat some innings down the stretch would be a smart move to keep the bullpen nice and rested. The fans in Cleveland deserve some pop. Taylor Ward deserves to leave Anaheim. Let’s hope these two parties decide to collaborate. Mark Canha is the most Cleveland Guardians player I’ve ever seen.
AL West:
Los Angeles Angels:
Direction: Hard Sell
Current Record: 36-51
Goal: Replenish the farm system for the future
Players that need to be dealt:
Taylor Ward, Brandon Drury, Tyler Anderson, Luis Rengifo, Kevin Pillar, Carlos Estevez, Hunter Strickland
Trades:
Guardians Receive: Taylor Ward (OF), Brandon Drury (UTL), Cash Considerations
Angels Receive: Jhokensy Noel (OF/1B, CLE #25), Joey Cantillo (SP, CLE #10)
Giants Receive: Carlos Estevez (RP/CP)
Angels Receive: Carson Seymour (SP, SF #17), PTBNL
Cardinals Receive: Tyler Anderson (SP), Hunter Strickland (RP)
Angels Receive: Travis Honeyman (OF, STL #11), Ian Bedell (RP, STL #19), Dylan Carlson (OF)
Mets Receive: Luis Rengifo (UTL)
Angels Receive: Brett Baty (3B), Mike Vasil (SP, NYM #12)
Reds Receive: Kevin Pillar (OF)
Angels Receive: Jacob Hurtubise (OF), PTBNL
Summary:
If a used car commercial were a baseball team, it’d be the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. If you like this team and you aren’t a fan, you have some explaining to do. And if you’re a fan? You’re past explaining and on to healing. They don’t even have anyone to trade. Get Luis Rengifo moved during a career year for some great value. Kevin Pillar is the same story. Taylor Ward needed to be traded a year ago. Bad teams don’t need good closers, so go ahead and move Carlos Estevez, and let’s see Ben Joyce close some games. If Tyler Anderson isn’t traded, this team should be relegated.
Oakland Athletics:
Direction: Hard Sell
Current Record: 33-57
Goal: Competitive by 2026
Players that need to be dealt:
Brent Rooker, JP Sears, Miguel Andujar, Mason Miller, Mitch Spence, Scott Alexander, Lucas Erceg
Trades:
Twins Receive: Brent Rooker (DH)
Athletics Receive: Austin Martin (2B), Matt Canterino (SP, MN #13)
Reds Receive: JP Sears (SP)
Athletics Receive: Carlos Sanchez (3B/SS, CIN #25)
Rangers Receive: Scott Alexander (RP)
Athletics Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Red Sox Receive: Lucas Erceg (RP)
Athletics Receive: Josh Winckowski (RP), PTBNL
Phillies Receive: Mason Miller (CP)
Athletics Receive: Justin Crawford (OF, PHI #3), Griff McGarry (SP, PHI #10), George Klassen (SP, PHI #28), Jose Ruiz (RP)
Braves Receive: Miguel Andujar (UTL)
Athletics Receive: Forrest Wall (OF)
Summary:
A step in the right direction is a good way to sum up the Athletics so far. They’re still a ways away from being the A’s of old with star-studded lineups and a packed Coliseum. Miguel Andujar should be on his way out. His contract seemed like a sign-and-trade from the beginning. Just trade Mason Miller before his elbow explodes. Knowing the A’s that’ll definitely happen if they don’t move him. Lucas Erceg is another piece you don’t need for your future. Brent Rooker should’ve been moved last year. Is he still in Oakland? Wow. Scott Alexander. Gone. JP Sears should actually bring back an interesting return, as he has some control and has been quietly solid. The A’s should stock up the farm and tank for a top pick in the 2025 draft.
Texas Rangers:
Direction: Soft Sell/Hold
Current Record: 40-48
Goal: Compete by 2025
Players that need to be dealt:
Nathaniel Lowe, Kirby Yates,
Players to target:
Scott Alexander
Trades:
Rangers Receive: Scott Alexander (RP)
Athletics Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Yankees Receive: Nathaniel Lowe (1B), Kirby Yates (RP)
Rangers Receive: Will Warren (SP, NYY #7), Ben Rice (1B/C, NYY #12), Caleb Ferguson (RP)
Summary:
I’m gonna be honest, I really don’t like this team. They’ve lost their magic. Everyone’s been hurt, and it just feels like it isn’t their year. Not to mention the Astros haven’t been themselves, and the Rangers still haven’t been able to capitalize. It’s time to retool and get back to it in 2025. Adding Scott Alexander is a whatever move to compensate for losing Kirby Yates. Yates deserves to compete for a ring, and Nathaniel Lowe should get moved before he loses value. Both of them fit the Yankees roster perfectly, and the return should be somewhat bountiful coming from New York. Remember. Everything’s bigger in New York, especially when it’s from Texas.
Houston Astros:
Direction: Buy
Current Record: 46-42
Goal: 2024 Playoffs
Players to target:
Mike Clevinger, Andrew Vaughn, Dylan Floro, Huascar Brazoban, Cal Quantrill
Trades:
Astros Receive: Mike Clevinger (SP), Andrew Vaughn (1B/DH)
White Sox Receive: Joey Loperfido (UTL), Trey Cabbage (OF/DH), Jacob Amaya (SS/2B, HOU #21)
Astros Receive: Dylan Floro (RP)
Nationals Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Astros Receive: Huascar Brazoban (RP)
Marlins Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Astros Receive: Cal Quantrill (SP)
Rockies Receive: Trey Dombrowski (SP, HOU #20)
Summary:
They’re coming. The time is near. The Astros have a real shot at winning this division. But they’ve got some HOLES. They’re built like a sinking ship being held together by wrist tape and gorilla glue. Mike Clevinger should bring some much-needed quality starts down the stretch for a depleted staff. Andrew Vaughn would provide production from what’s been otherwise an absolute wasteland of a position. Cal Quantrill is a better Mike Clevinger, and he could even find himself starting a playoff game if something either goes really right or really wrong. The Stros’ pen has been giving up homers like they’re doing a BOGO all year, and Dylan Floro is allergic to the long ball. Adding him to the back end of the pen would do WONDERS. Huascar Brazoban has an electric pitch mix that can be untouchable at times, and he’d mix in well. The Astros would need to be willing to part with young MLB talent, as not too many front offices are high on their farm system.
Seattle Mariners
Direction: Buy
Current Record: 49-42
Goal: Win Division
Players to target:
Jazz Chisholm Jr., Emmanuel Rivera, Joc Pederson, Jalen Beeks, Jesse Winker
Trades:
Mariners Receive: Jazz Chisholm Jr. (UTL), Emmanuel Rivera (UTL)
Marlins Receive: Tyler Locklear (1B, SEA #8), Emerson Hancock (SP), Ryan Bliss (2B/SS, SEA #11)
Mariners Receive: Joc Pederson (DH)
Diamondbacks Receive: Teddy McGraw (SP, SEA #14), PTBNL
Mariners Receive: Jalen Beeks (RP)
Rockies Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations, Trent Thornton (RP)
Mariners Receive: Jesse Winker (DH/OF)
Nationals Receive: Taylor Dollard (SP, SEA #20)
Summary:
How to hit a ball. Step 1: We forgot step 1. The Mariners just don’t hit. It’s blasphemous. Julio Rodriguez is the latest to get space jammed out of his powers. And Mitch Garver is as good as my friend (My friend is okay). This team needs a jolt. Ever been to the Bahamas? Here comes Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the top rope. Add Emmanuel Rivera as a bench piece. Jesse Winker reintroduces himself to the Seattle faithful with a reinvented approach he calls “playing much better baseball.” Jalen Beeks would provide another reliable left-handed option out of the bullpen. Joc Pederson would be able to carry this offense for weeks at a time if he stays hot, and that’s exactly what this team needs. Seattle needs to capitalize on the Astros/Rangers debacle of a season so far. If this team chokes and doesn’t make an effort to prevent 2024 from slipping away, they might need some retooling within their own front office. This deadline would be somewhat pricey in prospect capital from the Mariners’ perspective, but in all honesty, they need to go out and win. Their fans deserve better. Seattle has always struck me as the American League version of the Brewers.
NL East:
Miami Marlins:
Direction: Hard Sell
Current Record: 31-58
Goal: Revamp farm system and acquire young talent
Players that need to be moved:
Jazz Chisholm Jr., Bryan De La Cruz, JT Chargois, Emmanuel Rivera, Josh Bell, Anthony Bender, Andrew Nardi, Tanner Scott, Huascar Brazoban
Trades:
Mariners Receive: Jazz Chisholm Jr. (UTL), Emmanuel Rivera (UTL)
Marlins Receive: Tyler Locklear (1B, SEA #8), Emerson Hancock (SP), Ryan Bliss (2B/SS, SEA #11)
Astros Receive: Huascar Brazoban (RP)
Marlins Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Yankees Receive: Andrew Nardi (RP)
Marlins Receive: Benjamin Cowles (INF, NYY #29), Cash Considerations
Reds Receive: Bryan De La Cruz (OF/DH)
Marlins Receive: Lyon Richardson (SP, CIN #13), Santiago Espinal (UTL)
Brewers Receive: Anthony Bender (RP)
Marlins Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Braves Receive: Josh Bell (1B/DH), JT Chargois (RP)
Marlins Receive: Dylan Dodd (SP, ATL #15)
Brewers Receive: Tanner Scott (CP)
Marlins Receive: Carlos Rodriguez (SP, ML #7), Eric Brown Jr. (SS, ML #10), Joey Wiemer (OF)
Summary:
Tear it down. So many young pitchers. So little young talent? That’s weird. The last time I heard about a good young Marlins hitter, he was already on another team. There isn’t much explaining to do here. Get whatever you can for your solid relievers. Get a haul for Tanner Scott from a team that’s willing to overpay. Finally, flip any offensive pieces that aren’t a part of your future and let the young guys play. The rest of the season should see the Marlins call up young talent. The fact that Max Meyer isn’t on this team right now says all you need to know about the current state of the Miami Marlins.
Washington Nationals:
Direction: Sell
Current Record: 42-47
Goal: Compete by 2026
Players to trade:
Jesse Winker, Lane Thomas, Kyle Finnegan, Hunter Harvey, Dylan Floro
Trades:
Mariners Receive: Jesse Winker (DH/OF)
Nationals Receive: Taylor Dollard (SP, SEA #20)
Giants Receive: Lane Thomas (OF)
Nationals Receive: Spencer Bivens (SP/RP), Hayden Birdsong (SP, SF #4), Austin Slater (OF)
Astros Receive: Dylan Floro (RP)
Nationals Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Royals Receive: Kyle Finnegan (CP)
Nationals Receive: Javier Vaz (2B/OF, KC #15), John McMillon (SP, KC #17), Dairon Blanco (OF)
Orioles Receive: Hunter Harvey (RP)
Nationals Receive: Luis De Leon (SP, BAL #16)
Summary:
Next Orioles? Potentially. Abrams is legit. James Wood has looked great through his first week. The young pitching is good enough to raise an eyebrow or two. I’m interested. But this isn’t the year. Get what you can for Dylan Floro and Hunter Harvey. Kyle Finnegan should net a solid return. Jesse Winker was a sign-and- trade from the beginning, and he’s revived his career (I love contracts like this, little to no risk and so much upside). Lastly, I think Lane Thomas should be moved at a deadline where many teams will be adding. Dylan Crews is on his way, and Jacob Young currently leads all players in OAA in CF. Might as well let him play and see if he can learn to swing it. Washington won’t net a ton of prospect capital this deadline. They should focus on freeing up space to let young players roam free to really see what they’ve got. If he isn’t hurt, Cade Cavalli should throw in the MLB this year in Washington.
New York Mets:
Direction: Hold
Current Record: 43-44
Goal: 2024 WC
Players to target:
Luis Rengifo, Zack Littell
Trades:
Mets Receive: Zack Littell (RP/SP)
Rays Receive: Dedniel Nunez (RP), PTBNL
Mets Receive: Luis Rengifo (UTL)
Angels Receive: Brett Baty (3B), Mike Vasil (SP, NYM #12)
Summary:
I’m not bought into this team. The offense is solid. And to be honest, it’s deep. The pitching is a logjam of mediocrity that you can’t override without cutting way too many guys to justify. Zack Littell should add some quality innings down the stretch. Luis Rengifo would be the perfect bat to pair with Francisco Lindor at the top of the lineup. This would also allow the Mets to tell Jeff McNeil to stop playing like bad Jeff McNeil and bat him lower in the lineup. Other than that, there’s not much to do other than hold what you’ve got and hope it pays off. I’d like to see a drastic shake-up in the off-season in terms of how this roster is constructed.
Atlanta Braves:
Direction: Hold
Current Record: 47-39
Goal: Top WC Spot
Players to target:
Miguel Andujar, Josh Bell, JT Chargois, Jameson Taillon
Trades:
Braves Receive: Miguel Andujar (UTL)
Athletics Receive: Forrest Wall (OF)
Braves Receive: Josh Bell (1B/DH), JT Chargois (RP)
Marlins Receive: Dylan Dodd (SP, ATL #15)
Braves Receive: Jameson Taillon (SP), PTBNL
Cubs Receive: Drue Hackenburg (SP, ATL #10)
Summary:
So many solid players. A good number of injuries. Solid record. Not much to do. Miguel Andujar could add a spark and a solid bench bat, along with Josh Bell, to solidify a struggle bus of a bench. Jameson Taillon would turn this rotation into a UNIT. This team is good. It’s more about what they’ve got than what they need. The prospect capital they’d be giving up to attain these players is next to nothing, and they should make moves at least within this realm without a second thought.
Philadelphia Phillies:
Direction: HARD Buy
Current Record: 58-30
Goal: 2024 World Series
Players to target:
Luis Robert, Mason Miller
Trades:
Phillies Receive: Luis Robert
White Sox Receive: Andrew Painter (SP, PHI #1), Mick Abel (SP, PHI #5), Carlos De La Cruz (OF/1B, PHI #12)
Phillies Receive: Mason Miller (CP)
Athletics Receive: Justin Crawford (OF, PHI #3), Griff McGarry (SP, PHI #10), George Klassen (SP, PHI #28), Jose Ruiz (RP)
Summary:
In my humble opinion, I don’t think this Phillies team will ever be this good again. Career years from: Ranger Suarez, Cristopher Sanchez, Jeff Hoffman, Orion Kerkering, Matt Strahm, Alec Bohm, Spencer Turnbull, Edmundo Sosa, and a bunch of random production from guys like David Dahl. I’m not hating, I’m just being realistic. If you are realistic, it makes sense to go for it NOW. Get Mason Miller to the Bank and listen to that crowd roar when he blows 103 by Austin Riley. And while we’re at it, Johan Rojas can take a break because Cuban Mike Trout (Luis Robert) will be taking over center field. These two moves should notch a division title that’s all but claimed already and help this team make a deep October run that could end with a ring. If the Phillies don’t have at least a World Series appearance this year, then they’ve failed.
NL Central:
Chicago Cubs:
Direction: Soft Sell
Current Record: 41-49
Goal: Compete by 2025
Players to trade:
Jameson Taillon, Patrick Wisdom
Trades:
Braves Receive: Jameson Taillon (SP), PTBNL
Cubs Receive: Drue Hackenburg (SP, ATL #10)
Padres Receive: Patrick Wisdom, Cash Considerations
Cubs Receive: Tyler Wade, PTBNL
Summary:
It’s not their year. Someone’s gotta suck in the NL Central, and it looks to be the baby bears. This team’s bullpen single-handedly sent it into the sun. I know the feeling as a 2023 Cardinals fan, which means I can recognize when a retool needs to occur. Jameson Taillon should be moved while in the midst of a great bounce-back season. It’s also time the Cubs moved on from Patrick Wisdom and allowed Christopher Morel to take over full-time at 3B and bring up a young guy to DH. This team could still compete after these two moves, but it frees up room for them to add in the offseason, which we know they will. Drue Hackenburg should be ready by 2025, and Tyler Wade could slot in this year to fill a spot.
Cincinnati Reds:
Direction: Soft Buy
Current Record: 42-47
Goal: Playoffs 2025
Players to target:
Kevin Pillar, JP Sears, Bryan De La Cruz
Trades:
Reds Receive: Kevin Pillar (OF)
Angels Receive: Jacob Hurtubise (OF), PTBNL
Reds Receive: JP Sears (SP)
Athletics Receive: Carlos Sanchez (3B/SS, CIN #25)
Reds Receive: Bryan De La Cruz (OF/DH)
Marlins Receive: Lyon Richardson (SP, CIN #13), Santiago Espinal (UTL)
Summary:
Another team that’s middling. The Reds have kept themselves in it, but just at arm’s reach. They might as well add. They’ve got all their young guys at the big league level, and Elly De La Cruz can only keep running for so long. Bryan De La Cruz in Great American SmallPark would be menacing. JP Sears might have a tough time pitching at home for the Reds, but one thing is for sure: he’ll eat innings. This team is a spark of energy. They just need to find some consistency. Jonathan India should be moved during the off-season to make room for young talent. Kevin Pillar might add a veteran presence that creates at least mental stability in a young clubhouse, and his production has been, dare I say, elite this year.
Pittsburgh Pirates:
Direction: Soft Sell
Current Record: 42-46
Goal: 2025 Playoffs
Players to trade away:
David Bednar, Bailey Falter
Trades:
Orioles Receive: David Bednar (CP)
Pirates Receive: Dylan Beavers (OF, BAL #6)
Guardians Receive: Bailey Falter (SP/RP)
Pirates Receive: C.J. Kayfus (1B, CLE #27)
Summary:
No, the Pirates aren’t as good as you think. Yes, Paul Skenes is the modern Nolan Ryan. Yes, their pitching is exceptional. But guess what? They’re about 4-5 bats away from being a real playoff team. This team should trade David Bednar and Bailey Falter while they can. Much like the Cubs from earlier, they can still compete after these moves and with good offseason additions (primarily position players). They should be a favorite to win the NL Central in 2025. Dylan Beavers should play in 2024, and CJ Kayfus should get a shot in ’25 unless the Buccos get serious and sign a big bat first baseman (if these trades were to become reality).
St. Louis Cardinals:
Direction: Soft Buy
Current Record: 46-42
Goal: 2024 WC
Players to target:
Tyler Anderson, Hunter Strickland, Victor Vodnik
Trades:
Cardinals Receive: Tyler Anderson (SP), Hunter Strickland (RP)
Angels Receive: Travis Honeyman (OF, STL #11), Ian Bedell (RP, STL #19), Dylan Carlson (OF)
Cardinals Receive: Victor Vodnik (RP)
Rockies Receive: Jonathan Mejia (2B/SS, STL #30)
Summary:
*snores*. *yawns*. Oh. Sorry. I was sleeping. Oh, the Cardinals won? Probably by 3 runs or less. What a boring team. But they’re finding ways to squeeze out wins. There isn’t much room to add on the position player side of things, but the pitching could use an injection of some Mr. Anderson (Neo). Hunter Strickland and Victor Vodnik would fill the roles of Keynan Middleton (hurt) and Giovanny Gallegos (struggling). This team needs to finish above .500. 2023 was a disaster. Asking for the playoffs is a stretch, but anything 83+ in the win total would be a great sign for the fans. Also, CALL UP JORDAN WALKER YOU MORONS. LET HIM HIT LINE DRIVES.
Milwaukee Brewers:
Direction: Buy
Current Record: 52-37
Goal: 2024 NLCS
Players to target:
Yusei Kikuchi, Tanner Scott, Anthony Bender, Erick Fedde
Trades:
Brewers Receive: Yusei Kikuchi (SP)
Blue Jays Receive: Bradley Blalock (SP, ML #17), Filippo Di Turi (SS/2B, ML #29)
Brewers Receive: Tanner Scott (CP)
Marlins Receive: Carlos Rodriguez (SP, ML #7), Eric Brown Jr. (SS, ML #10), Joey Wiemer (OF)
Brewers Receive: Anthony Bender (RP)
Marlins Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Brewers Receive: Erick Fedde (SP)
White Sox Receive: Brett Wichrowski (SP, ML #14), PTBNL
Summary:
They’re doing that thing again. Mom. Mom make them stop. Tell them to stop doing that thing again. What’s that thing? Winning. It’s winning. I picked this team to win the division. I’m not high on any of their young talent, excluding Chourio. And I still knew they would. They just know how to win. They NEED to have a real postseason run. With a rapidly advancing NL Central, the Brewers must make the most of the time they’ve got at the top. Surprisingly, they’ve struggled in the area in which they’ve historically excelled. Starting pitching. Adding Kikuchi to this rotation would be perfect. The guys in Milwaukee might turn him into the next Garret Crochet. And he’d cost way less. Erick Fedde would be a cheap and easy plug-in that would eat innings like a frog eats flies (they eat flies). Anthony Bender would be a nice addition to an already solid bullpen. Tanner Scott is the new Josh Hader. Bring him on in. Screwballer Devin Williams has been hurt all year, and I think it’d be wise to have another save option to pair with him when he gets back for the postseason. Personally, I think Megill is too wild to consider in a postseason closer role.
NL West:
Colorado Rockies:
Direction: HARD SELL
Current Record: 31-57
Goal: Bring back prospects, PLEASE
Players that need to be traded:
Cal Quantrill, Victor Vodnik, Justin Lawrence, Jalen Beeks, Brendan Rodgers, Austin Gomber, Elias Diaz
Trades:
Yankees Receive: Elias Diaz (C), Justin Lawrence (RP)
Rockies Receive: Brando Mayea (OF, NYY #9), Jake Cousins (RP), Jose Trevino (C), PTBNL
Astros Receive: Cal Quantrill (SP)
Rockies Receive: Trey Dombrowski (SP, HOU #20)
Cardinals Receive: Victor Vodnik (RP)
Rockies Receive: Jonathan Mejia (2B/SS, STL #30)
Mariners Receive: Jalen Beeks (RP)
Rockies Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations, Trent Thornton (RP)
Dodgers Receive: Brendan Rodgers (UTL)
Rockies Receive: Austin Gauthier (UTL, LAD #25), PTBNL
Diamondbacks Receive: Austin Gomber
Rockies Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Summary:
After Alan Trejo was DFA’d, it all came crashing down. The Rockies really are like the mountains they represent. They don’t move forward at all. They just sit there. Now, in a perfect world, they would trade Ryan McMahon to the Yankees, and we’d all say “hooray!” and go to Applebee’s. But if we’re being realistic, apparently, he’s friends with the owner and isn’t going anywhere? Pitiful. Trade all your decent relievers, please. At the very least, get rid of Austin Gomber. I have no idea how he’s been any good while pitching at Coors Field. And please move on from Brendan Rodgers. Elias Diaz is much older than you think and is not a part of this team’s future, and therefore should be moved. Call up young talent and let them run. Do something right for once.
Arizona Diamondbacks:
Direction: Soft Sell
Current Record: 43-45
Goal: 2025 Playoffs
Players to acquire:
Austin Gomber
Player to trade away:
Paul Sewald, Joc Pederson
Trades:
Diamondbacks Receive: Austin Gomber
Rockies Receive: PTBNL, Cash Considerations
Red Sox Receive: Paul Sewald (CP)
Diamondbacks Receive: David Sandlin (SP, BOS #14), PTBNL
Mariners Receive: Joc Pederson (DH)
Diamondbacks Receive: Teddy McGraw (SP, SEA #14), PTBNL
Summary:
Diamondbacks fans. Welcome to where you belong. The precipice of mediocrity. This World Series team was never a good regular-season team. And from the start, it seemed unrealistic to expect them to win more than 88-90 games. Now it’s looking more and more like 80-82. However much it pains you, I think you cut your losses and get what you can for Joc Pederson and Paul Sewald. Let Justin Martinez close games. Call up Ivan Melendez or another big bat prospect, and let’s see them swing it. Maybe they’ll bring some life to this barren team. Austin Gomber can eat innings; that’s about it. Christian Walker should’ve been an all-star.
San Francisco Giants:
Direction: Soft Buy
Current Record:44-46
Goal: 2024 WC
Players to target:
Carlos Estevez, Lane Thomas
Trades:
Giants Receive: Carlos Estevez (RP/CP)
Angels Receive: Carson Seymour (SP, SF #17), PTBNL
Giants Receive: Lane Thomas (OF)
Nationals Receive: Spencer Bivens (SP/RP), Hayden Birdsong (SP, SF #4), Austin Slater (OF)
Summary:
They can’t do anything right. First, they don’t sign anyone. Then they sign Arson. Then they sign Correa and find out he’s injured. Then they ACTUALLY get some stars (Matt Chapman and Blake Snell), and those stars have turned out like month-old blueberries. This team cannot justify doing nothing. Camilo Doval has been shaky all year. Add Carlos Estevez to the mix and relieve some of the pressure. Lane Thomas would provide a solid outfield piece who’s a good two-way player. This team is weird. I don’t think they need much more than they have to compete for the wildcard. Or even second in the division. The Giants need to have a record over .500 at the end of the year, or Farhan might be far gone.
San Diego Padres:
Direction: Hold
Current Record: 49-43
Goal: 2024 Playoffs
Players to target:
Patrick Wisdom
Trades:
Padres Receive: Patrick Wisdom, Cash Considerations
Cubs Receive: Tyler Wade, PTBNL
Summary:
This team has zero roster flexibility and almost no prospects left. AJ Prellar has bled their farm system dry. Adding Patrick Wisdom would make a good bench piece. They better hope something clicks other than Jurickson Profar because right now they’re looking a lot luckier than they are smart.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
Direction: HARD BUY
Current Record: 54-35
Goal: 2024 World Series
Players to target:
Randy Arozarena, Bo Bichette, Justin Turner, Brendan Rodgers, Jack Flaherty
Trades:
Dodgers Receive: Randy Arozarena (OF)
Rays Receive: Jesus Tillero (SP, LAD #29), Chris Taylor (UTL)
Dodgers Receive: Bo Bichette (SS), Justin Turner (DH/1B)
Blue Jays Receive: Josue De Paula (OF, LAD #2), River Ryan (SP, LAD #4), Gavin Lux (SS/2B)
Dodgers Receive: Brendan Rodgers (UTL)
Rockies Receive: Austin Gauthier (UTL, LAD #25), PTBNL
Dodgers Receive: Jack Flaherty
Tigers Receive: Kyle Hurt (SP/RP, LAD #5), Anthony Banda (RP)
Summary:
Strap in. Ohtani is going to the playoffs. And he’s not alone! He’s joined by Jack Flaherty! Well, that’s if my trades happen. The Dodgers always seem to have 9 good starting pitchers, and 6 of them are always hurt. So why not add another electric arm that rediscovered itself in Detroit, of all places? Brendan Rodgers would be a fun project that I think could pay off past this year. Bo Bichette should be the Dodgers’ everyday shortstop. Mookie should go back to the outfield. Thanks for trying, Mookie. Now do what you do and stop messing around in the infield. A Justin Turner reunion would feed families. Randy Arozarena’s value is at an all-time low, and the Dodgers can afford to miss on him while a lot of other teams can’t. He’d made a great addition to an already electric team. The Dodgers should win the 2024 World Series.
StonesJournal 
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