1 Potential 2016 Trade Idea for All 30 MLB Teams Heading into June

The MLB trade market generally doesn't heat up until the beginning of July, but it's never too early to start speculating about some potential deals that teams could explore.

We've broken down the following article into buyers, sellers and teams still on the fence, as it's not clear where all 30 teams will fall at this point with so much baseball left to be played.

For buyers, we've proposed a trade to help plug one of their areas of need, and for sellers we've suggested a deal that could turn a veteran piece into young assets.

In the case of teams on the fence, a decision had to be made between buyer and seller for the sake of suggesting a potential deal, but things could obviously change there based on what approach the team winds up taking.

At any rate, one trade proposal has been laid out for all 30 MLB clubs.

In many cases, the same trade is featured for two teams, giving us a chance to dive into what makes the move a potential win for both sides. So don't be surprised when the same deal pops up twice in the following slides.

Will all of these moves happen? Of course not, but don't be surprised if at least a few of these proposed trades wind up being more than just speculation.

Areas of Need: SP, LHRP, IF

Proposed Trade

To BAL: SP Jeremy Hellickson

To PHI: SP David Hess, OF Josh Hart

Overview

Despite a high-powered offense, quality bullpen and good pair of starting pitchers in Chris Tillman and Kevin Gausman, the Baltimore Orioles still appear to be at least one starting pitcher away from being serious contenders.

Beyond Tillman (10 GS, 6-1, 2.61 ERA, 1.125 WHIP) and Gausman (6 GS, 0-1, 2.70 ERA, 1.118 WHIP), the rest of the Orioles' rotation has performed as follows:

• Ubaldo Jimenez: 9 GS, 2-5, 6.04 ERA, 1.776 WHIP
• Mike Wright: 7 GS, 2-3, 5.09 ERA, 1.377 WHIP
• Tyler Wilson: 6 GS, 2-3, 4.41 ERA, 1.186 WHIP
• Yovani Gallardo: 4 GS, 1-1, 7.00 ERA, 1.667 WHIP
• Vance Worley: 2 GS, 1-0, 5.06 ERA, 1.312 WHIP

Finding a third quality veteran they can lean on to provide consistent innings seems like a must, and Jeremy Hellickson has turned things around nicely with the Philadelphia Phillies this year.

The 29-year-old free agent-to-be has gone 4-3 with a 3.97 ERA (3.93 FIP), 1.235 WHIP and a career-best 9.1 K/9.

He has roughly $4.6 million left on his $7 million contract at this point, so he'd represent a relatively cheap solution for the Orioles and could prove to be the difference in their push for an AL East title.

Areas of Need: SP, OF

Proposed Trade

To BOS: SP Rich Hill

To OAK: SP Trey Ball, OF Henry Ramos, RP Chandler Shepherd

Overview

After spending time in the independent league, Rich Hill got a chance down the stretch last year with the Boston Red Sox. He made the most of it, going 2-1 with a 1.55 ERA, 0.655 WHIP and 11.2 K/9 over four late-season starts.

That made him the most intriguing free-agent arm on the market this past winter, and he wound up joining the Oakland Athletics on a one-year, $6 million deal.

Now he's lining up to be one of the top trade chips of the summer, and the Red Sox are expected to be among the clubs looking to improve their rotation via trade.

Could a reunion with Hill be a potential solution?

Peter Gammons is among those who view it as a possibility, and there's no question Hill would be an impact addition, as he's gone 7-3 with a 2.18 ERA (2.74 FIP), 1.110 WHIP and 10.1 K/9 through his first 10 starts.

The Red Sox rotation ranks 18th in the majors with a 4.51 ERA.

Clay Buchholz (9 GS, 2-4, 5.92 ERA) has struggled all season, and the team is still waiting for a return to health from Eduardo Rodriguez.

With an offense that should keep them in the thick of things in the AL East and an ace who is slowly rounding into form in David Price, adding someone like Hill could push the Red Sox over the top in their pursuit of a division crown.

Areas of Need: LHRP, OF

Proposed Trade

To CHC: RP Fernando Abad

To MIN: SP Brad Markey, RP Corey Black

Overview

At this point, adding a quality left-handed reliever to the back of the bullpen would appear to be the Chicago Cubs' most pressing need.

Travis Wood (22 G, 3.68 ERA) has been solid, but finding a second southpaw who can take the ball in high-leverage, late-inning situations would be a nice addition to the relief corps. Clayton Richard (15 G, 6.00 ERA) is currently the only other lefty in the pen.

Fernando Abad could be the answer.

The 30-year-old joined the Minnesota Twins on a one-year, $1.25 million deal in the offseason. He's posted a 0.51 ERA, 0.906 WHIP and 8.7 K/9 in 21 appearances as the lone bright spot in an awful Twins bullpen.

He has the added bonus of being under team control through the 2017 season, but he still shouldn't cost a ton in the way of prospect talent.

This proposal has right-handers Brad Markey and Corey Black heading to Minnesota.

Markey, 24, has moved quickly since being taken in the 19th round of the 2014 draft, and he's gone 4-1 with a 2.64 ERA and 1.385 WHIP in Double-A this year. He has the potential to develop into a useful back-of-the-rotation starter, but at the very least he should be a viable middle reliever.

Black, 24, has electric stuff with a fastball that can touch 99 and a wipeout slider, but control problems have forced him to the bullpen. He has a 4.6 BB/9 for his career, so modest improvement in that department could make him a useful late-inning arm.

Areas of Need: LHH, SP, SS

Proposed Trade

To CWS: RF Jay Bruce, $4 million

To CIN: SP Tyler Danish, IF Jake Peter

Overview

Many would point to filling out the back of the rotation as the biggest area of need for the Chicago White Sox, but an argument can be made that adding a left-handed bat with some pop might be even more pressing.

The lineup is anchored by a pair of right-handed sluggers in Jose Abreu and Todd Frazier, but left-handed hitters have contributed just a .663 OPS, which ranks 28th in the majors.

Odds are they won't be willing to part with the young talent necessary to acquire Carlos Gonzalez, but someone like Jay Bruce should be within reach.

The 29-year-old hit just .222/.288/.406 the past two seasons, but he has rebounded nicely this year with a .263/.317/.513 line that includes eight doubles, eight home runs and 29 RBI.

Despite that solid offensive showing, he's been a minus-0.4 WAR player as a result of his horrible defensive metrics. He's contributed a minus-10 DRS and minus-35.9 UZR/150 in right field.

That shouldn't concern the White Sox, though, as he'd likely be used as the primary DH with an outfield of Melky Cabrera, Austin Jackson and Adam Eaton already in place.

Bruce is still owed roughly $8.4 million of his $12.5 million salary for this year and has a $1 million buyout on a $13 million option next year.

Kicking in about half of that remaining salary would mean a better prospect return for the Reds, and it would also mean more payroll flexibility to address other needs for the White Sox.

Areas of Need: RP, OF, SP, 3B

Proposed Trade

To CLE: RP Marc Rzepczynski

To OAK: RP Shawn Armstrong

Overview

Marc Rzepczynski is a familiar name for Cleveland Indians fans, and his return would give the team a much-needed lefty in the bullpen.

"Scrabble," as he's affectionately known, spent parts of three seasons with the Indians before being traded to the San Diego Padres at the deadline last year.

He appeared in 145 games during his time in Cleveland, posting a 2.70 ERA, 1.281 WHIP and 9.3 K/9 as one of the more reliable southpaws in the game.

Traded again this offseason to the A's, he's continued to pitch well with a 3.78 ERA over 23 appearances in Oakland.

Meanwhile, the Indians are currently without a left-hander in their bullpen.

Kyle Crockett (11 G, 14.73 ERA) and Ross Detwiler (7 G, 5.79 ERA) both saw time in the majors earlier this year, and Tom Gorzelanny is also in the organization, but all three are currently pitching in Triple-A.

Rzepczynski is swapped here for right-handed reliever Shawn Armstrong.

He's currently pitching for Triple-A Columbus, and he's performing well with a 2.40 ERA and 28 strikeouts in 15 innings. But command remains an issue, as he's also walked 16 batters. If things click, he could be a solid late-inning arm.

Areas of Need: RP, SP

Proposed Trade

To DET: RP John Axford, $2 million

To OAK: RP Adam Ravenelle, IF Dominic Ficociello

Overview

Despite adding the likes of Francisco Rodriguez, Mark Lowe and Justin Wilson during the offseason, the Detroit Tigers bullpen is still among the worst in baseball.

The relief corps ranks 22nd in the league with a 4.06 ERA, with Lowe (19 G, 6.61 ERA) and Wilson (21 G, 4.50 ERA) both failing to live up to expectations so far in the setup role.

The back of the rotation is still being sorted out, but regardless of what happens with the starting staff, the team figures to be in the market for at least one late-inning bullpen arm.

John Axford could be a good fit.

Signed to a two-year, $10 million deal in the offseason as the A's overhauled their bullpen, the 33-year-old has pitched well with a 3.79 ERA over 19 appearances.

His contract is backloaded so he'll make $5.5 million next season, which means the A's will likely need to throw in some cash in the deal. If that happens, he'd be a welcome addition to the pen.

Going the other way in this proposed deal is relief pitching prospect Adam Ravenelle (15 G, 3.50 ERA, 10.5 K/9 in High-A) and infielder Dominic Ficociello (.233/.317/.315, 8 XBH in Double-A), neither of whom project as much more than organizational depth.

Areas of Need: RF, SP, LHRP, 2B

Proposed Trade

To KC: RF Nick Markakis, $10 million

To ATL: SP Eric Skoglund, OF Brett Eibner

Overview

The right field position produced a .244/.279/.338 line with just five home runs and 46 RBI for the Kansas City Royals last season. Free-agent addition Alex Rios was not the answer.

That has improved to .306/.333/.394 so far this year sans Rios, but much of that is due to the unsustainable play of Paulo Orlando.

The 30-year-old has put up a .397/.408/.534 line over 76 plate appearances, but that comes with a ridiculous .491 BABIP, and he's walked just once on the year.

With significant regression coming for Orlando, and Alex Gordon also sidelined with a broken bone in his wrist, the Royals are very much in the market for a corner outfielder.

One player they've shown interest in is Atlanta Braves right fielder Nick Markakis, according to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe.

The 32-year-old doesn't provide much in the way of power these days, but he's still a solid table-setter with a .347 on-base percentage and 14.1 percent walk rate that ranks 13th in the NL.

The Braves would need to chip in some money, as he's owed $22 million the next two years and still has about $7.4 million left on the books this year.

They've shown a willingness to take on money to better their prospect situation in the past, so that shouldn't be a sticking point.

Areas of Need: RP, SP

Proposed Trade

To LAD: RP Aroldis Chapman

To NYY: SP Jharel Cotton, 2B Willie Calhoun, SP Chase De Jong

Overview

The Los Angeles Dodgers came awfully close to acquiring Aroldis Chapman during this year's winter meetings, but the deal that was in place eventually fell through after details about an offseason incident involving his girlfriend and a firearm began to emerge.

Chapman eventually ended up joining the New York Yankees instead, and he was slapped with a 30-game suspension to start the season for the aforementioned incident.

With that issue now behind him, the Dodgers could look to make another run at adding the flamethrower should the Yankees decide to make him available.

For all that was made of losing Zack Greinke and a perceived lack of starting pitching, it's the bullpen that has been a far bigger issue for the Dodgers to this point.

The relief corps currently ranks 11th in the league with a 3.52 ERA, but they've blown eight saves and lost nine games, so they've been far from effective.

The Dodgers would need to be careful to avoid a situation similar to what the Washington Nationals went through last year when they acquired Jonathan Papelbon and already had a solid closer in Drew Storen.

However, Chapman could be the missing piece if they can find a way to keep both him and incumbent Kenley Jansen happy.

Areas of Need: SP, RP

Proposed Trade

To MIA: SP Scott Feldman

To HOU: SP Jeff Brigham, RP Ben Holmes

Overview

At this point, even if the Miami Marlins don't wind up buying aggressively, they don't have much to sell as a team looking to win now with a young core in place.

Shoring up the back end of the starting rotation appears to be the most glaring need at this point, and a veteran arm like Scott Feldman could be a nice fit at a relatively cheap price.

Jose Fernandez is once again pitching like a front-line ace, but the rest of the rotation has been hit or miss.

Wei-Yin Chen (3-2, 4.61 ERA), Tom Koehler (2-5, 4.79 ERA), Adam Conley (3-3, 4.15 ERA) and Justin Nicolino (2-2, 4.37 ERA) make up the rest of the rotation at the moment, and while they've all pitched well at times, consistency has been an issue.

Meanwhile, Feldman was the odd man out in Houston when Lance McCullers returned to the roster, and he's been pitching out of the bullpen since.

Used exclusively as a starter the past three seasons, he's gone 25-29 with a 3.83 ERA and 1.259 WHIP.

He was 0-2 with a 4.58 ERA in four starts this season before being moved to the pen, and he has a 2.13 ERA in eight relief appearances.

Adding Feldman to the back of the rotation might not be the most exciting move, but it would provide some stability. He's also a relatively inexpensive rental option with an $8 million salary in the final year of his current contract.

Areas of Need: 1B, 3B

Proposed Trade

To NYM: 1B James Loney

To SD: Player to be named or cash

Overview

The New York Mets have a hole to fill at first base with Lucas Duda landing on the disabled list with a stress fracture in his back.

"I'm real concerned, there's no question," manager Terry Collins told reporters Sunday, via NJ.com. "I'm really concerned that this is going to keep this guy out a while, but that's just me. I'm not the doctor."

The team has some in-house options to plug the hole in the short term, but if Duda does wind up missing significant time, it could explore bringing someone in via trade.

James Loney could be a cheap addition worth taking a flier on.

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Mets "have some curiosity" about Loney, whatever that means. At the very least, it seems he's an option they haven't ruled out.

The 32-year-old is currently playing at the Triple-A level with the San Diego Padres after being released by the Tampa Bay Rays this spring.

He's posted a solid .340/.372/.425 line with seven doubles, two home runs and 28 RBI, including a 3-for-5 performance with four RBI on Wednesday.

Per Buster Olney of ESPN, Loney has an opt-out clause in his contract that allows him to pursue an MLB deal if it presents itself. The Padres have first crack at promoting him, though, and they could do that to force the Mets to give up a low-level prospect or cash to get the deal done.

Areas of Need: RP

Proposed Trade

To PIT: RP Drew Storen, $3 million

To TOR: SP Tyler Eppler

Overview

The Pittsburgh Pirates lost Joakim Soria, Antonio Bastardo and Joe Blanton from what was one of the best bullpens in baseball last year, and their relief corps has not been nearly as sharp this season.

Mark Melancon (16/17 SV, 2.21 ERA) and Tony Watson (10 HLD, 2.18 ERA) are once again one of the best late-inning tandems in baseball, and free-agent addition Neftali Feliz (10 HLD, 3.45 ERA, 0.893 WHIP, 12.1 K/9) has been better than anyone could have hoped.

There hasn't been much reliable depth behind those three, though.

No team has done a better job with reclamation projects in recent years than the Pirates and pitching coach Ray Searage, and Drew Storen could be his next success story.

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired Storen from the Washington Nationals this offseason in exchange for outfielder Ben Revere, hoping they had found a dominant setup man and an insurance policy for closer Roberto Osuna.

Instead, he's pitched to a 7.80 ERA and 1.733 WHIP in 18 appearances, and the Blue Jays have told teams he's available for trade, per Bob Elliott of the Toronto Sun.

Buying low on a pitcher who saved 29 games last season with a 3.44 ERA, 1.109 WHIP and 11.0 K/9 seems like exactly the kind of move the small-market Pirates tend to target.

There are concerns from a stuff perspective, though. Storen's fastball velocity is down from 94.0 mph last year to 91.8 mph so far this year, according to FanGraphs.

That could be enough to scare off any potential suitors, but if it's something the Pirates think is correctable, it's a move that could pay off big.

Areas of Need: SP, RP

Proposed Trade

To SF: SP Ricky Nolasco, $12 million

To MIN: OF Steven Duggar, RP Ian Gardeck

Overview

The San Francisco Giants boast arguably the best one-two-three of any staff in baseball right now with the trio of Madison Bumgarner, Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardzija.

Matt Cain has also pitched significantly better of late, recording three straight quality starts with a 1.71 ERA and 1.095 WHIP during that span.

That gives them four quality starters, but Jake Peavy (10 GS, 1-5, 7.26 ERA) has been awful out of the final spot in the rotation, and the team is fairly thin on experienced depth beyond Chris Heston.

Ricky Nolasco could be a nice veteran pickup.

Nolasco has largely been a disaster since signing a four-year, $49 million deal with the Twins prior to the 2014 season, going 11-14 with a 5.64 ERA and 1.553 WHIP in his first two seasons with the team.

His 5.54 ERA so far this year looks like more of the same on the surface, but it's accompanied by a 3.70 FIP, and there's reason to believe he can be a solid middle-of-the-rotation arm going forward.

He also has experience joining a contender midseason, as he moved from the Marlins to the Dodgers in 2013 and went 8-3 with a 3.52 ERA in 15 starts and one relief appearance to help Los Angeles win the NL West.

As long as the Twins are willing to toss in a decent-sized chunk of money, this could be a terrific under-the-radar move that pays off big.

Areas of Need: OF

Proposed Trade

To SEA: RF Matt Kemp, $23.75 million

To SD: RP Paul Fry, SS Rayder Ascanio

Overview

The Seattle Mariners currently rank fifth in the majors at 4.78 runs per game, up from 21st in the league a year ago when they plated 4.05 runs per contest.

That's helped put them atop the AL West standings, with a 1.5-game lead over the Texas Rangers entering play on Thursday.

While offense is not a concern at the moment, they are still a very lefty-heavy lineup.

Right-handed batters have contributed a .254/.336/.441 line with 23 home runs and 70 RBI, but those numbers drop significantly when you remove Nelson Cruz from the equation.

Cruz has made an impact in the middle of the lineup once again, but the rest of the team's right-handed hitters have put up a .234/.305/.399 line with 13 home runs and 38 RBI.

That includes Franklin Gutierrez, who has hit .217/.314/.367 as the only right-handed-hitting outfielder on the roster. All of that adds up to Matt Kemp making sense as a potential target if the price is right.

Our proposal has the San Diego Padres chipping in $23.75 million. Allow me to explain that figure.

Kemp is currently owed roughly $77.5 million through the end of the 2019 season, including about $12.5 million the rest of the way in 2016.

The Dodgers are paying around $12.8 million of that—$2.5 million through the end of 2016.

So let's say the Padres pay half of the $10 million still owed to Kemp this year, and then $6.25 million each of the next three years to bring Kemp's annual salary for the Mariners down to $12 million per year.

That makes Kemp's deal far more easy for the Mariners to stomach, and in a thin crop of bats, they add one capable of making a serious impact.

This would admittedly be an ultra-aggressive move for the Mariners, but this is a team built to win now and looking to snap a lengthy postseason drought.

Areas of Need: LHRP

Proposed Trade

To STL: RP Boone Logan

To COL: SP Trey Nielsen

Overview

The St. Louis Cardinals have one of the best left-handed setup men in baseball in Kevin Siegrist, but he's actually far more effective against right-handed batters:

• Career: .667 OPS vs. LHH, .571 OPS vs. RHH
• 2016: .712 OPS vs. LHH, .528 OPS vs. RHH

Veteran Randy Choate filled the LOOGY role the past few seasons, but he departed in free agency this past winter, and the team could use another quality left-hander who is tough on lefties.

They haven't been scared off by veteran relievers with big contracts in the past, acquiring the likes of John Axford, Jonathan Broxton and Steve Cishek in recent seasons.

Boone Logan fits that mold.

In the final season of a three-year, $16.5 million deal with the Colorado Rockies, Logan pitched to a 5.37 ERA and 1.641 WHIP over the first two years of that contract.

He's been terrific so far this season, though.

Over 18 appearances, he has a 1.93 ERA, 1.000 WHIP and 10.9 K/9, and lefties have gone just 4-for-31 against him with a .408 OPS.

He won't cost much if the Cardinals are willing to take on what's left of his $6.25 million salary, but his strong numbers should be enough to warrant at least one midlevel prospect.

Trey Nielsen is a 24-year-old right-hander who has moved quickly since being drafted in the 30th round of the 2013 draft.

He's gone 5-3 with a 2.91 ERA in nine Double-A starts this year, but his 4.8 K/9 rate and 1.310 WHIP are indicative of his ground-ball approach, so he'll never be a high strikeout guy.

Flipping an expensive reliever for a young arm with No. 5 starter upside and a middle reliever floor seems like a good move for both sides here.

Areas of Need: C, RP

Proposed Trade

To TEX: C Jonathan Lucroy, RP Carlos Torres

To MIL: OF Lewis Brinson, SP Ariel Jurado, IF Josh Morgan, SP Connor Sadzeck

Overview

The Texas Rangers have been linked to Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy more than once since the end of last season.

No trade came together during the offseason, but Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reported in March that the Rangers remained interested despite no recent talks.

The rumor mill began swirling again when Rangers starting backstop Robinson Chirinos suffered a broken forearm in April, and it remains a popular topic of speculation despite a strong .274/.333/.478 line from the catcher position so far this year.

The platoon of Bobby Wilson and Bryan Holaday has been better than expected, and Chirinos will be back at some point, but there's still no question that Lucroy would be an upgrade and a significant addition to a team with legitimate World Series aspirations.

After an injury-plagued season last year saw his OPS dip from .837 in 2014 to just .717, Lucroy has bounced back nicely this season and is again one of the league's most productive receivers.

He's currently hitting .277/.343/.453 with eight doubles and six home runs, and that coupled with his strong defense has made him a 1.4 WAR player.

Aside from being an immediate upgrade for this season, Lucroy also carries a very reasonable $5.25 million team option for 2017, so he'd be more than just a rental.

Also heading to Texas in this proposed deal is reliever Carlos Torres, who served as a key setup arm for the New York Mets the previous three seasons before joining the Brewers.

He's pitched to a 3.47 ERA over 21 appearances, and would provide another option for a Rangers bullpen that ranks 29th in the majors with a 5.32 ERA.

Areas of Need: OF

Proposed Trade

To WAS: RF Carlos Gonzalez, $5 million

To COL: SP Reynaldo Lopez, SP Austin Voth, OF Ben Revere

Overview

The Washington Nationals have had as much talent as any team in baseball for the past several seasons, but they've yet to enjoy any sort of postseason success and fell well short of expectations last year when they missed the playoffs.

Once again battling with the New York Mets for NL East supremacy, they could look to make a splash by adding another bat to the middle of a lineup that features Bryce Harper and Daniel Murphy but little else in the way of run production and power.

It would be a huge move, but adding Carlos Gonzalez to the lineup could provide them with this year's version of Yoenis Cespedes in terms of post-trade deadline impact.

Michael Taylor and Ben Revere have both struggled mightily, and all told the center field position has contributed a .195/.249/.317 line with five home runs and 12 RBI.

Meanwhile, CarGo is hitting .282/.324/.437 with 15 extra-base hits, and he showed last season that he's capable of going on an absolute tear as he posted a .975 OPS in the second half and finished the year with 40 home runs.

Gonzalez is still owed about $11.5 million this season and is signed for $20 million next year, and if the Rockies were wiling to throw in some money it should sweeten their prospect return.

Flipping Revere in the deal also saves money, as he's making $6.25 million this season and will be due a raise in his final year of arbitration.

Ideally the Nationals would acquire a right-handed bat to slot between Harper and Murphy, but CarGo would still be an excellent addition to the lineup.

Areas of Need: OF, RP

Trade Chips: RP Brad Ziegler, RP Daniel Hudson, C Welington Castillo

Proposed Trade

To ARI: RP Fernando Salas

To LAA: OF Colin Bray

Overview

The Arizona Diamondbacks went all-in this offseason with the signing of Zack Greinke and acquisition of Shelby Miller, so expect them to do everything they can to contend for a playoff spot.

With Michael Bourn (6-for-17) hitting well since being called up from the minors, the outfield situation doesn't look quite as dire despite being without A.J. Pollock and David Peralta.

Instead, improving the bullpen should be their main focus.

The relief corps currently ranks 24th in the majors with a 4.22 ERA, and their 166.1 innings of work rank second in the league.

A total of 16 different pitchers have made at least one relief appearance, so adding a proven late-inning arm like Fernando Salas could help provide some stability.

Salas led the Angels with 72 appearances last season and recorded 18 holds, and so far this season he's posted a 2.01 ERA, 0.896 WHIP and 8.1 K/9 over 22 games.

The 30-year-old is earning just $2.4 million in his final year of arbitration, so the Diamondbacks should be able to fit him in the payroll despite their offseason spending.

Areas of Need: 3B, SP, RP

Trade Chips: CF Carlos Gomez, SP Doug Fister, SP Scott Feldman, OF Colby Rasmus, C Jason Castro

Proposed Trade

To HOU: SP Jeff Brigham, RP Ben Holmes

To MIA: SP Scott Feldman

Overview

Even if the Houston Astros decide to continue making a push at contention despite their rough start, trading Scott Feldman could be a move the team explores.

The veteran right-hander has been pitching out of the bullpen since Lance McCullers returned from the disabled list, and while he's a nice insurance policy to have around, unloading what's left of his $8 million contract makes sense for a struggling club.

Despite his solid track record, it's unlikely the Astros would net a big return for the free agent-to-be, but they should be able to pick up a couple of decent prospects with starting pitching at a premium.

This proposal has them acquiring Jeff Brigham and Ben Holmes from the Marlins.

Brigham, 24, was moved at the deadline last year in the deal that sent Mat Latos to the Dodgers, and he's someone who could take off with a move to the bullpen.

He's still being used as a starter in High-A and has pitched to a 7.41 ERA in 34 innings of work. His solid fastball/slider combination would work well out of the bullpen and could put him on the fast track to the majors if his command improves a bit.

Holmes, 24, is old for his level at Single-A Greensboro, but he's off to a hot start with a 0.97 ERA and 1.054 WHIP over 37 innings.

The left-hander doesn't have the best command or strikeout stuff with a 20/27 BB/K ratio, but as long as he keeps getting batters out he'll be an intriguing option as a southpaw.

Areas of Need: SS, OF, RP

Trade Chips: RP Fernando Salas, RP Joe Smith, SP Hector Santiago, SP Jhoulys Chacin

Proposed Trade

To LAA: OF Colin Bray

To ARI: RP Fernando Salas

Overview

It's hard to see any scenario where the Los Angeles Angels are buyers, even if they stay in contention.

Their farm system is the worst in baseball by a wide margin, and they're already dealing with a bloated payroll situation.

If they fall out of the race, expect upcoming free-agent relievers Joe Smith and Fernando Salas to both be moved before the deadline, as quality late-inning arms are always in demand.

This proposal has Salas heading to the Arizona Diamondbacks for outfield prospect Colin Bray.

Bray, 22, was a sixth-round pick in 2013 and is coming off a strong season in Single-A.

He hit .308/.370/.410 with 36 extra-base hits and 27 steals, earning him the No. 23 spot among Diamondbacks prospects on MLB.com.

Here is the site's scouting report:

Bray has a knack for putting the ball in play and should keep hitting for average as he progresses. As a potential table-setter, he's more than willing to bunt his way on, sacrifice and draw some walks. He's not a power hitter, but he has enough strength to find gaps. A well above-average runner, he'll continue to be a threat on the bases. He's an excellent defender in center field with a solid arm.

Bray gets praise from within the organization for being a real "baseball player," one who should continue to maximize his tools as he moves up the ladder.

Salas should be one of the top relief arms on the market, and Bray would be a nice return with free agency looming and the Angels unlikely to spend to bring the veteran reliever back.

Areas of Need: SP

Trade Chips: RP Aroldis Chapman, RP Andrew Miller, OF Carlos Beltran, SP Ivan Nova

Proposed Trade

To NYY: SP Jharel Cotton, 2B Willie Calhoun, SP Chase De Jong

To LAD: RP Aroldis Chapman

Overview

The New York Yankees fanbase won't like hearing this as the team is just one game under .500 and playing good baseball at 7-3 in its last 10 games, but this does not have the look of a squad with a good chance at challenging for a title.

The starting pitching isn't good enough, and in a thin market for arms and with an unwillingness to part with high-end prospects, the Yankees are unlikely to find that missing piece as buyers.

Instead, selling off either Aroldis Chapman or Andrew Miller seems like the club's best course of action on the trade market.

Chapman makes the most sense, as he's set to hit free agency this coming offseason, and teams would no doubt be lining up to acquire one of the game's elite bullpen arms.

So what exactly would it take for the Los Angeles Dodgers to pull off a deal?

Don't expect any of their elite-level prospects to be in play.

The Yankees didn't give up all that much to acquire Chapman in the first place (Rookie Davis, Eric Jagielo, Caleb Cotham, Tony Renda), and his value hasn't increased as he's moved closer to free agency.

That said, they should still be able to pick up a handful of quality pieces.

This proposed deal has right-hander Jharel Cotton as the centerpiece, with second baseman Willie Calhoun and right-hander Chase De Jong going to New York as well.

Cotton, 24, is ranked as the Dodgers' No. 8 prospect by MLB.com.

He broke out last season with a 2.45 ERA, 1.118 WHIP and 10.7 K/9 in 95.2 innings over four minor league levels, finishing in Triple-A.

Calhoun checks in as the team's No. 15 prospect and is playing in Double-A after being selected in the fourth round last June. He could wind up as a super utility guy, and his bat should play in the majors if his .785 OPS—with 11 doubles and six home runs—this year is any indication.

Rounding out the package is the 22-year-old De Jong, who can throw four pitches for strikes and has a relatively high floor. His ceiling is probably as a No. 5 starter, but he should be a useful arm in some capacity.

Areas of Need: OF, LHRP

Trade Chips: SP Jeremy Hellickson, OF Peter Bourjos, RP David Hernandez, RP Andrew Bailey, C Carlos Ruiz, 1B Ryan Howard

Proposed Trade

To PHI: SP David Hess, OF Josh Hart

To BAL: SP Jeremy Hellickson

Overview

The Philadelphia Phillies have played far better than expected this year with a 26-21 start to the season. Still, a minus-31 run differential is an indication they've played over their heads to this point. By the time trade season rolls around, they could once again be looking to deal veteran assets.

They don't have a ton of those left, but one who could net a promising return is right-hander Jeremy Hellickson. Heading to the Phillies in this proposed deal is right-hander David Hess and outfielder Josh Hart.

Hess, 22, was a fifth-round pick in 2014, and he's gone 2-2 with a 2.89 ERA and a 9/31 BB/K ratio over 43.2 innings of work.

He has the potential to develop into a back-end starter with improved secondary stuff, and he currently ranks as the No. 13 prospect in the O's system, per MLB.com.

Hart, 21, was signed to a $1.45 million bonus after going No. 37 overall in the 2013 draft, but he's hit just .237/.282/.288 with a 20.6 percent strikeout rate to this point in his pro career.

That includes a .163/.230/.228 line in his second go-around with High-A Frederick so far this year, but all the tools that made him such a highly regarded prospect are still there, including plus speed and quality defensive skills.

For a rebuilding team like the Phillies, he's worth pursuing.

Areas of Need: OF, C, RP

Trade Chips: SP Jake Odorizzi, SP Matt Moore, SP Alex Cobb

Proposed Trade

To TB: CF Peter Bourjos

To PHI: Player to be named or cash

Overview

The Tampa Bay Rays could be one of the biggest sellers of the deadline if they decide to make their crop of young, controllable starting pitchers available. That's still a ways off, though, so for now we'll stick to a small-scale addition.

Kevin Kiermaier could miss up to 10 weeks after suffering a broken hand, leaving the Rays without one of the game's elite defensive players as well as one of their more consistent offensive pieces.

The injury will open more playing time for Brandon Guyer, who has been great in a part-time role, and Mikie Mahtook was recalled from the minors to take over as the fourth outfielder.

However, for a team that values defense as much as the Rays, a glove-first center fielder like Peter Bourjos could be an attractive addition.

The Philadelphia Phillies claimed Bourjos off waivers from the St. Louis Cardinals this offseason, and he's hitting just .203/.233/.305 with 10 extra-base hits in 137 plate appearances.

He has a track record as one of the better defensive outfielders in the game, though, and shouldn't cost much if anything to acquire from a Phillies team set to turn over outfield at-bats to prospects Nick Williams and Roman Quinn in the near future.

Even if he's just a short-term addition, this seems like the type of move the Rays would explore.

Areas of Need: RP

Trade Chips: 1B Edwin Encarnacion, OF Michael Saunders, RP Drew Storen

Proposed Trade

To TOR: SP Tyler Eppler

To PIT: RP Drew Storen, $3 million

Overview

If the Toronto Blue Jays become full-on sellers, they could really turn the trade market on its head by making upcoming free agents Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion available.

That's still a big "if" at this point, though, so rather than go off the deep end with a trade proposal for one of those big bats, we'll stick to a small-scale deal.

Bob Elliott of the Toronto Sun reported last week the team is willing to trade struggling reliever Drew Storen, and he'd represent an intriguing buy-low candidate for a number of teams if the price is right.

Chances are the Blue Jays won't be able to get anywhere near what they gave up to get Storen this offseason, as they shipped speedy outfielder Ben Revere and his two years of team control to the Washington Nationals in a one-for-one deal.

However, they should be able to pick up at least one midlevel prospect based on Storen's track record. We have him going to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for right-hander Tyler Eppler.

Here's what MLB.com had to say about Eppler, their No. 28 prospect in the Pirates system:

Eppler has the chance to have an above-average fastball-slider combination coming from a big, physical 6-foot-6 frame. He'll now touch the mid-90s with regularity and he's tightened up his breaking ball into a slider that should be at least Major League average. He has the ingredients for a solid changeup as well and if it all comes together, he could have a three-pitch mix ideal for starting. Eppler certainly looks the part and is a very good strike-thrower.

The one thing holding Eppler back from fitting the starting profile is durability. An elbow issue delayed his start in 2015, so he'll have to show he can handle a full season's workload. If that's a question, his fastball-slider could play up coming out of the bullpen.

Seems like a reasonable return for a struggling reliever who has closer upside.

Trade Chips: SP Julio Teheran, RF Nick Markakis, SS Erick Aybar

Proposed Trade

To ATL: SP Eric Skoglund, OF Brett Eibner

To KC: RF Nick Markakis, $10 million

Overview

In a relatively thin market for bats, the Atlanta Braves have a chance to net a decent prospect return and save some money in the process by moving right fielder Nick Markakis.

The Braves signed the veteran to a four-year, $44 million deal prior to last season, but flipping him now and saving some money seems like the right move. This proposal has them shipping Markakis and $10 million to the Kansas City Royals in exchange for left-hander Eric Skoglund and outfielder Brett Eibner.

Skoglund and his tall, lanky frame have drawn comparisons to one of the game's top lefties.

"His 6'7" frame has prompted comparisons to Chris Sale since Skoglund was in high school, but he's skinnier and more about finesse than missing bats," MLB.com wrote. "He won't ever lead the American League in strikeouts like Sale did last year, but Skoglund could pitch in the back end of a big league rotation."

The 23-year-old has a 4.26 ERA and terrific 9/41 BB/K ratio in 44.1 innings, and while he wouldn't be a top prospect in a deep Braves system, he'd be a quality addition in exchange for Markakis.

As for Eibner, the 27-year-old has yet to get a chance at the MLB level, but he continues to produce in the minors.

After posting a .303/.364/.514 line with 23 doubles, 19 home runs and 81 RBI in Triple-A last season, he's back in Omaha this year and raking again with a .309/.411/.537 line that includes four double, 10 home runs and 28 RBI in 181 plate appearances.

He could be plugged into Atlanta's lineup immediately as a replacement for Markakis, and he could surprise given that opportunity.

Trade Chips: RF Jay Bruce, SS Zack Cozart, 2B Brandon Phillips, RP Ross Ohlendorf

Proposed Trade

To CIN: SP Tyler Danish, IF Jake Peter

To CWS: RF Jay Bruce, $5 million

Overview

The Cincinnati Reds have done a terrific job building up the farm system in recent years, and in particular stockpiling pitching prospects.

Unloading Jay Bruce at the deadline should allow them to add even more quality young talent to the system, and here we're sending him to the Chicago White Sox for right-hander Tyler Danish and infielder Jake Peter.

Danish, 21, ranks as the White Sox's No. 11 prospect, according to MLB.com.

He's progressed slowly since being selected in the second round of the 2013 draft but has looked much better in his second season in Double-A with a 4.08 ERA and 1.156 WHIP in 64 innings of work.

He relies more on generating ground balls than racking up strikeouts, so locating his pitches is important. Still, he has the potential to be a decent middle-of-the-rotation starter if everything breaks right.

As for Peter, he's not the flashiest prospect, but he provides a quality bat and valuable defensive versatility as he's played all over the field during his time as a pro.

He's hitting .296/.361/.407 in Double-A, and his advanced approach should give him a chance to make it as an everyday second baseman. If not, he should at least be a solid utility player with plus offensive skills.

Trade Chips: RF Carlos Gonzalez, C Nick Hundley, OF Ryan Raburn, RP Boone Logan, SS Jose Reyes

Proposed Trade

To COL: SP Reynaldo Lopez, SP Austin Voth, OF Ben Revere

To WAS: RF Carlos Gonzalez, $5 million

Overview

The Colorado Rockies finally pulled the trigger on trading shortstop Troy Tulowitzki last season, and they could jettison their other high-priced star Carlos Gonzalez this year.

Despite the money remaining on his contract (about $31.5 million), his injury history and his fairly dramatic home/road splits, CarGo is still an incredibly valuable trade chip and potentially the biggest bat available via trade this season.

He rebuilt a good amount of value last season with an .864 OPS, 40 home runs and 97 RBI, and his ability to catch fire and carry an offense for weeks on end is what makes him such an intriguing pickup.

This proposal has him going to the Washington Nationals in exchange for a pair of pitching prospects in Reynaldo Lopez and Austin Voth and MLB outfielder Ben Revere.

Right-hander Lucas Giolito, shortstop Trea Turner and outfielder Victor Robles are the consensus top three prospects in the Nationals system, and all three are untouchable for the sake of this trade.

That means the centerpiece would likely be one of Erick Fedde or Lopez. Lopez has the higher ceiling at this point, so we'll make him the top prospect heading to Colorado in this trade.

The 22-year-old established himself as a top prospect with a 1.08 ERA over 83.1 innings in 2014, and he's continued to impress, albeit with less dominant results, while reaching Double-A this season.

It will likely take at least one more high-end pitching prospect to get the deal done, so we'll add Voth, who currently ranks as the No. 9 prospect in the Nationals system, according to MLB.com.

The 23-year-old has thrown the ball well every step of the way since being taken in the fifth round of the 2013 draft, and this season he's gone 2-2 with a 3.25 ERA, 1.173 WHIP and 44 strikeouts in 44.1 innings in Triple-A.

Rounding out the package is speedy Ben Revere, who is off to a slow start this year but is capable of making a major impact atop the lineup and is controllable through the 2017 season.

Trade Chips: C Jonathan Lucroy, RF Ryan Braun, RP Jeremy Jeffress, SS Jonathan Villar, 1B Chris Carter, RP Blaine Boyer, RP Carlos Torres, RP Chris Capuano

Proposed Trade

To MIL: OF Lewis Brinson, IF Josh Morgan, SP Ariel Jurado, SP Connor Sadzeck

To TEX: C Jonathan Lucroy, RP Carlos Torres

Overview

The Texas Rangers have not shied away from trading their young talent at the deadline in recent years, including the Cole Hamels deal last July.

If they make a serious run at acquiring Jonathan Lucroy from the Milwaukee Brewers, it will mean once again dipping into the farm system and giving up some quality talent.

The $5.25 million team option on Lucroy for next season makes him the most valuable trade chip on the Brewers roster, and it will cost a significant haul of prospects to pry him away from the rebuilding club.

This proposed package is centered around outfielder Lewis Brinson and also includes third baseman Josh Morgan and right-handers Ariel Jurado and Connor Sadzeck.

Brinson, 22, ranks as the No. 3 prospect in the Rangers system and the No. 13 prospect in baseball, according to MLB.com.

He hit .332/.403/.601 with 31 doubles, 20 home runs and 18 stolen bases over three minor league levels last season, reaching Triple-A for eight games to close out the year. He's off to a slow start this year but remains a dynamic all-around talent with a 30/30 ceiling.

Morgan, 20, is the No. 9 prospect in the Texas organization, and he's still tapping into his offensive potential.

"Morgan is an advanced hitter for his age, recognizing pitches and controlling the strike zone better than most and producing line drives to all fields. He barrels balls easily and has a quick right-handed bat, so he might reach double digits in home runs once he gets stronger," MLB.com wrote.

He hit .288 with a .385 on-base percentage and 19 extra-base hits in Single-A last season.

Jurado (the team's No. 12 prospect) is just 20 years old and pitching in High-A, where he's shown middle-of-the-rotation upside. Sadzeck (the team's No. 27 prospect) has an 80-grade fastball and could move quickly if he's shifted to the bullpen.

It's a lot to give up, but the Rangers farm system is still stacked and Lucroy could be the piece that pushes them over the top.

Trade Chips: RP Fernando Abad, RP Kevin Jepsen, SP Ricky Nolasco, 3B Trevor Plouffe

Proposed Trade

To MIN: OF Steven Duggar, RP Ian Gardeck

To SF: SP Ricky Nolasco, $12 million

Overview

The Minnesota Twins would love nothing more than to rectify the four-year, $49 million mistake they made when they signed Ricky Nolasco prior to the 2014 season.

In a thin market for starting pitching, they just might be able to unload him. Nolasco went 11-14 with a 5.64 ERA and 1.553 WHIP in his first two seasons with the Twins, battling injuries to make just 36 total starts.

He's healthy this season, and while his 5.54 ERA doesn't look great, his 3.71 FIP should be enough to intrigue at least a few teams into kicking the tires.

Nolasco is still owed roughly $8 million this season, $12 million in 2017 and then a $1 million buyout on a $13 million option for 2018. If the Twins were to kick in $12 million, that would pay for the rest of this season and his buyout and make him a $9 million pitcher next year.

It still saves the Twins $9 million and should trim enough of the salary fat to allow them to acquire a couple of midlevel prospects. This proposal has them acquiring outfielder Steven Duggar and reliever Ian Gardeck.

Duggar was a sixth-round pick last season and has hit .293/.396/.433 in 449 career plate appearances. The 22-year-old doesn't provide much in the way of power but could carve out a nice career as a fourth outfielder.

Gardeck is set to miss the entire 2016 season following Tommy John surgery, but he was emerging as an intriguing bullpen prospect before the injury.

The 25-year-old appeared in 61 games for High-A San Jose last year, posting a 3.54 ERA and 1.158 WHIP while striking out 104 batters in 86.1 innings. That earned him a spot on the 40-man roster, and he could be a valuable reclamation project.

Trade Chips: SP Rich Hill, 3B Danny Valencia, RP John Axford

Proposed Trade

To OAK: SP Trey Ball, OF Henry Ramos, RP Chandler Shepherd

To BOS: SP Rich Hill

Overview

Rich Hill has gone from forgotten man to September surprise to an absolute bargain on a one-year, $6 million deal with the Oakland Athletics this season. In fact, with a limited market for starting pitching this coming offseason, he could wind up warranting a qualifying offer, per Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports.

That is if he isn't traded first.

Passan suggests the A's might be better off selling high on Hill in the near future than holding onto him all season, and teams would line up for a chance to acquire the rejuvenated left-hander.

In this scenario, he heads to the Red Sox for a package of left-hander Trey Ball, outfielder Henry Ramos and right-hander Chandler Shepherd.

Ball, 21, was the No. 7 pick in the 2013 draft, and while he has not lived up to expectations to this point, there is still plenty of projectability in the 6'6" southpaw.

He's off to a strong start for High-A Salem, going 2-0 with a 1.86 ERA and 0.966 WHIP over 29 innings, despite a low 5.9 K/9 strikeout rate.

"It's still easy to dream on Ball, a 6'6" left-hander who's as athletic and projectable as ever. There are no glaring flaws in his delivery, he works hard and he's starting to add strength to his skinny frame," MLB.com wrote.

Ramos, 24, looks the part of a power-hitting corner outfielder at 6'2" and 220 pounds, and he's steadily improved since being drafted in the fifth round of the 2010 draft out of Puerto Rico.

"A switch-hitter, he has improved his approach, plate discipline and pitch recognition since signing. He has at least above-average raw power and can put on a show in batting practice, but he doesn't drive the ball as consistently during game action," MLB.com wrote.

Rounding out the package is the 23-year-old Shepherd, who profiles as a useful middle reliever and has posted a 2.38 ERA, 0.971 WHIP and 11.5 K/9 in 14 appearances with Double-A Portland.

Trade Chips: SP Andrew Cashner, SP James Shields, RF Matt Kemp, C Derek Norris, OF Jon Jay, OF Melvin Upton, RP Fernando Rodney, SS Alexei Ramirez

Proposed Trade

To SD: RP Paul Fry, SS Rayder Ascanio

To SEA: RF Matt Kemp, $23.75 million

Overview

In the deal we outlined on the Mariners slide, the San Diego Padres send Matt Kemp and $23.75 million to Seattle in exchange for a pair of low-level prospects and some financial relief.

Despite sending all of that cash in the deal, the Padres would still stand to save roughly $40 million through the end of the 2019 season, so there's plenty of motivation to pull the trigger on their end.

This is more or less a cash dump, so they can't expect to net any significant prospects in return.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported on May 18 the Padres are already making Kemp available, and GM A.J. Preller has to know he won't be getting anything of significance in return beyond salary relief.

This deal has left-handed reliever Paul Fry and utility infielder Rayder Ascanio heading to San Diego.

Fry, 23, has posted a 2.78 ERA, 1.285 WHIP and 11.1 K/9 in 116 minor league appearances since being drafted in the 17th round of the 2013 draft. He's effective against right-handed hitters, so he should be able to develop into a useful middle reliever and more than just a LOOGY.

Ascanio is still just 20 years old, and he's already a plus defender up the middle, but his limited offensive upside leaves him as a utility type if he reaches the majors.

All stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference.com and FanGraphs and accurate as of May 25, unless otherwise noted.