Henry Roldán
August 2 is the 2022 MLB Trade Deadline for teams looking to strengthen their rosters for the postseason or to acquire a good group of prospects for the next few years.
As a result, with only two weeks left on the calendar, JefeBet provides you with a list of the needs of the teams vying for a playoff spot, as well as the strengths of those who will utilize them to sell and profit.
MLB Trade Deadline 2022: Needs in the National League’s East Division
New York Mets (Buyers)
Relief pitching
If the Mets want to finally make it to the World Series, they must strengthen some areas of their game, especially the bullpen. Edwin Diaz has been flawless, as has Adam Ottavino. Beyond the two, there are many questions that New York needs to address regarding relief pitching.
Potential Additions: David Robertson (Cubs), Daniel Bard (Rockies), Michael Fulmer (Tigers), Gregory Soto (Tigers), Joe Mantiply (Rattlers)
Power hitter
While the Mets acquired Daniel Vogelbach from the Pirates this weekend, all indications are that the Big Apple is looking for a right-handed power hitter who can help Pete Alonso in the starting lineup or as designated hitter.
Possible additions: Josh Bell (Nationals), Juan Soto (Nationals), Willson Contreras (Cubs), Trey Mancini (Orioles), C.J. Cron (Rockies).
Atlanta Braves (Buyers)
Relief pitching
If the Braves’ pitching needs help, it could be regarding relief, an area of the team that is similarly strong but can always be improved. Atlanta is talking about adding another arm to their starting staff, but a reliever should come before a starter.
Possible additions: Michael Fulmer (Tigers), David Robertson (Cubs).
Utility
With Ozzie Albies’ recovery still up in the air and the question of whether Robinson Canó will be able to continue to contribute the way he has, the Braves could add a piece to help in the infield and also see some action at the corners of the outfield after Adam Duvall’s injury abruptly ended his season.
Potential additions: Brandon Drury (Reds), Jordan Luplow (Rattlers), Ian Happ (Cubs), Josh Rojas (Rattlers)
Philadelphia Phillies (Buyers)
Starting pitcher
While the Phillies have two of the best starters in baseball in Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola, the rotation overall, especially with the injury to Zach Eflin, has little depth and getting another starting arm is a priority for the team.
Possible additions: Drew Smyly (Cubs), Jose Quintana (Pirates), Noah Syndergaard (Anaheim), Tyler Mahle (Reds).
Center Fielder
Bryce Harper should return at the end of August, and Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos are undisputed left and right fielders. That is why the Phillies, who are one of the worst teams in terms of center fielder performance, must strengthen that position urgently.
Possible additions: Brandon Drury (Reds), Ramon Laureano (Athletics), Juan Soto (Nationals), Bryan Reynolds (Pirates), Ian Happ (Cubs).
Miami Marlins (Buyers or Sellers?)
Starting pitcher
With two weeks left in the offseason the Marlins are one of the most intriguing teams in the league. In their division they have no chance at all, but they are just five games out of the wild card in the Nationals.
Their forte is pitching and there is much talk that starter Pablo Lopez, well regarded in the league, would be a piece of change to strengthen the batting staff, either for this season or for the next one.
Position players
If the Marlins end up being sellers there are a couple of pieces that several teams could be interested in such as shortstop Miguel Rojas or utility Jon Berti. The former is an experienced player with a more than established defense, while the latter is an average hitter who is unstoppable on the bases.
Potential additions: Nolan Gorman (Cardinals), José Yépez (Cardinals), Alex Kirilloff (Twins), Austin Hays (Orioles)
Washington Nationals (Sellers)
Power hitters
With nothing to look for, the Nationals are aiming to be one of the top sellers this season. Not only Juan Soto is the big name, but also Josh Bell and Nelson Cruz. Bell is one of the best first basemen in the league and Cruz is an experienced shortstop.
Relief pitching
The Nationals can also be effective relief sellers, as this is a weakness shared by many playoff teams. Among the names most often mentioned are Kyle Finnegan and Steve Cishek.
Possible additions: Francisco Alvarez (Mets), Anthony Volpe (Yankees), Jordan Walker (Cardinals), Bobby Miller (Dodgers).
