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.
2022 MLB Trade Deadline: Needs in the National League Central Division
Milwaukee Brewers (Buyers)
Designated Hitter
While the Brewers’ pitching is one of the best in baseball, Milwaukee needs someone with power to help Andrew McCutchen in the designated role.
Possible additions: Nelson Cruz (Nationals), Josh Bell (Nationals), Joey Gallo (Yankees).
Center Fielder
While Tyrone Taylor and Jonathan David help on defense, the Brewers remain without a center fielder. There’s the option of getting someone natural at that position, or trying to move Christian Yelich and get a corner outfield guy.
Possible additions: Ian Happ (Cubs), Ramon Laureano (Athletics), David Peralta (Rattlers).
St. Louis Cardinals (Buyers)
Starting pitcher
All season, the starting pitching has been the Cardinals’ main problem and now with injuries to Jack Flaherty, Steve Matz and Dakota Hudson the outlook looks more complicated.
Possible additions: Madison Bumgarner (Rattlers), Frankie Montas (Athletics), Paul Blackburn (Athletics), Noah Syndergaard (Angels), Martin Perez (Rangers), Jose Quintana (Pirates), Chad Kuhl (Rockies), Pablo Lopez (Marlins).
Batting
The Cardinals have positioned themselves in recent hours as strong candidates to acquire Juan Soto and that speaks to the team’s need to add another bat.
Possible additions: Juan Soto (Nationals), Brandon Drury (Reds), Nelson Cruz (Nationals), David Peralta (Rattlers).
Pittsburgh Pirates (Sellers)
Position players
With the departure of Daniel Vogelbach, the Pirates have already entered the market. They will very certainly continue to sell other names in the coming hours, including Michael Chavis, Bryan Reynolds, Kevin Newman, and Jake Marisnick.
Pitching
Pittsburgh has arms to offer, and one in particular that several teams appear to be interested in is closer David Bednar. As for starters, the name that sounds the most is that of José Quintana.
Medium-term goal: an efficient batter and youth in starting pitching.
Chicago Cubs (Sellers)
Catcher/Outfielder
The Cubs look to be one of the top sellers in the coming weeks thanks to big names like catcher Willson Contreras and outfielder Ian Happ, both of whom are coveted by nearly every team looking forward to the postseason.
Relief pitching
As with the position players, Chicago has a few arms in the bullpen who will be useful in the future. We’re talking about David Robertson and Mycal Givens.
Goal: Prospects to strengthen starting pitching and infield.
Cincinnati Reds (Sellers)
Starting pitcher
The Reds have two of the most coveted starters on the market in the names of Luis Castillo and Tyler Mahle. While Castillo may get better pay, Mahle is also a good bargaining chip.
Infielders
One of the most sought-after names on the market is that of Brandon Drury, a utility player who is having his best season in the Major Leagues. Veteran Mike Moustakas could also be a trade piece as could outfielder Tommy Pham.
Goal: Prospects to help improve the team’s farms.
