Phillies and Indians Reportedly Discussed Trade for Trevor Bauer

One of the most highly-coveted starters on this year's trade market has reportedly been tossed around in discussions.

According to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi, the Cleveland Indians, who hold the top AL Wild Card spot, have discussed a trade that would send ace starter Trevor Bauer to the Philadelphia Phillies.

Bauer stands out as one of the most electric arms who could be made available at the trade deadline this year. He's logged a respectable 3.49 ERA this year and has struck out 179 batters in 152 1/3 innings of work. Adding to his value is the fact that he has another year of control on his contract after 2019.

Philadelphia could certainly use his help in the rotation. Their starting staff rank 26th in fWAR and have posted a garish 5.03 FIP. Guys like Jake Arrieta and Aaron Nola have both failed to live up to expectations this year, and adding Bauer could ease the pressure that's been put on them to perform.

He'd also bolster their chances of making the playoffs. With the trade deadline a week away, the Phillies are on the outside looking in, but only barely. They sit just half of a game behind the St. Louis Cardinals for the second NL Wild Card berth and only one game behind the Washington Nationals for the top spot.

Bauer's presence for a playoff push could mean the difference between a chance at postseason glory and another October spent watching other teams gun for a title.

It's starting to turn into a race against time for teams looking to add, though. July 31 is fast approaching, and the only way to improve the team is for these rumors to turn into actions.