The All-Star break is done and the second half of the season is ready to resume. This is when teams begin to see the actual end of the road and prepare accordingly. With the trade deadline slightly over two weeks away, teams in contention will look to acquire players to help down the stretch while teams who have underperformed will take a seller’s approach and look to obtain future assets. The Minnesota Twins are currently 48-49, three GB in the division, and tied for the third wild card spot. The Washington Nationals have the same record but are eight GB in the N.L. East and four in the wild card. This could affect the paths of a trio of MLBbros.
Byron Buxton Has 23 Bro Bombs & Preparing For Second All-Star Start
Byron Buxton Has No-Trade Clause But Twins’ Hands Could Be Forced
MLBbro Byron Buxton was once again an All-Star this year and has enjoyed one of the relatively healthiest seasons in his career up to this point. While the chances of a trade with the franchise cornerstone are unlikely, the Twins would be wise to field offers on the MLBbro who will potentially score a big return. However, the MLBbro has a no-trade clause, which almost guarantees he will not leave, given his stance with the media lately of, “I ain’t going nowhere.” As it stands, Buxton isn’t going anywhere, but a string of losses after the break could force the Twins’ hands and could make Buxton rethink his stance.
Josh Bell’s Two-Run Blast Secures Twins’ 5-4 Road Win Over Astros
Buxton’s teammate and MLBbro Josh Bell is a very different case. Bell is a veteran switch-hitter who has been traded several times in his career already. The ability to hit from both sides of the plate is invaluable to any postseason contender. While he will not net a very strong return, flipping him for any prospects would be beneficial as he is on a one-year contract and not a long-term part of Minnesota’s plans. The Yankees, Guardians and Phillies could all benefit from an upgrade at first base or as the designated hitter. Or just the added presence of a proven hitter to strengthen the lineup.
CJ Abrams Could Be First Shortstop To Start All-Star Game In History Of Expos/Nationals Franchise
Will Black Nats Breakup?
MLBbro CJ Abrams and the Washington Nationals are at an unexpected crossroads. The All-Star shortstop is in the middle of a career year, already tying his career high in home runs and setting a new high in RBIs. New highs in on-base percentage, slugging percentage and walks are all within reach for Abrams as well. But the Nationals are once again outside of the playoff race. And, while they could go on a hot streak and sneak in with an exceptional young core, the team has no real pitching depth or a way to acquire it. Trading a young star with three years of club control could be their quickest way to obtain elite pitching prospects. The Yankees would surely look at the MLBbro to upgrade over the disappointing Anthony Volpe.
While none of these players are guaranteed to be traded, these teams should do their due diligence. GMs must evaluate the direction of their teams and plan accordingly to maximize potential for this season and the future.
