MLB RUMORS: GRADING TRADE FITS FOR AARON NOLA, AROLDIS CHAPMAN, DODGERS
We're back with another installment of trade fits, with FanSided's MLB Insider Robert Murray discussing fits for Aaron Nola, Aroldis Chapman and Jonathan India.
The MLB trade deadline is rapidly approaching, and there is increased buzz that the trade market is starting to heat up.
While no trades appear imminent, at least not yet, it's worth discussing what players may be available and where they may fit.
With the Philadelphia Phillies struggling, and extension talks with Aaron Nola not progressing this spring, it's possible he becomes available. Aroldis Chapman is a strong candidate to be the first player moved. The Dodgers, meanwhile, will be in the market for a starting pitcher and shortstop.
MLB Rumors: Grading a Texas Rangers trade for Aaron Nola
With the Texas Rangers losing Jacob deGrom for the rest of 2023 and likely all of 2024 after he was diagnosed with a torn right UCL, they may be in the market for another frontline starter.
The fact that the Rangers signed deGrom to a five-year, $185 million contract underscores just how much they value a frontline starter.
Nola would fit that mold perfectly and while he is a free agent at the end of 2023, they have shown they're not afraid to spend big in recent offseasons with the signings of deGrom, Jon Gray, Marcus Semien and Corey Seager, among others.
I like this fit a lot. I just don't know if Nola becomes available.
Grading the fit: 5/10
MLB Rumors: Grading a Minnesota Twins trade for Aroldis Chapman
As first reported by Darren Wolfson of KSTP, the Minnesota Twins are among the teams that have done work on Kansas City Royals reliever Aroldis Chapman.
Chapman is very likely to be among the first players moved at the deadline, as the Royals have shown a willingness to trade him well in advance of July 31 to maximize a potential return.
It's exactly what they had in mind when they signed Chapman to a one-year deal and his 2.95 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 21.1 innings has allowed that plan to work out perfectly.
This is a fit I really like and one to monitor. There will be plenty of other teams involved, however. So even if the fit makes sense for the Twins, they'll have to offer the best deal to bring it to reality.
Grading the fit: 7.5/10
MLB Rumors: Grading a Los Angeles Dodgers trade for Jonathan India
Yes, I realize this isn't exactly a perfect fit on paper. Jonathan India is a second baseman and the Los Angeles Dodgers need a shortstop.
But with the Cincinnati Reds calling up Elly De La Cruz, it has further fueled trade speculation surrounding India. From all indications, the Reds are in no hurry to move India.
They value his bat — he's hit 37 home runs in 313 career games and is slashing .276/.362/.421 with a .783 OPS this season — and what he brings to the clubhouse.
The Reds would need to be blown away to even consider trading India. He's only 26 years old. He's making $760,000 this season and is signed through the 2027 season. The price in any trade would be astronomically high, and it's difficult seeing any team ponying up what it will take to acquire the young infielder.
Grading the fit: 4/10