Tigers and Royals Reportedly Already Listening to Trade Offers on Star Players
By Joey Mauceri
Though we may be roughly two months from the MLB Trade Deadline, set for July 31st, the hot stove may be heating up a bit early this summer. Two struggling American League ball clubs, the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals, are reportedly already open to selling some of their trade chips.
The Kansas City Royals, who sit in last place in the AL Central with a 19-39 record, are letting teams know that they are open for business. Everyone is on the table, with the exception of a few untouchables including young breakout stars Raul Mondesi Jr and Hunter Dozier.
According to a source, the Royals have started to let it be known that nearly anybody on their roster is available in a trade, with shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and third baseman Hunter Dozier among the select untouchables. https://t.co/steQ7ddCT8
— Clint Scoles (@ClintScoles) June 1, 2019
It makes sense that Kansas City is already exploring the market considering they are already far out of contention, but despite the team's poor play the Royals do have a few desirable pieces to offer. Jorge Soler (.808 OPS) and Alex Gordon (.863 OPS) are two outfielders having solid seasons who could offer a boost to a contender's lineup. Ian Kennedy is having a since year since being moved to the bullpen, while Danny Duffy is an intriguing rotation option for a team in need of pitching help.
The Tigers, who have also fallen out of contention with a 22-32 record and only ahead of the Royals in the AL Central, are also letting teams know their phone-lines are open.
Shane Greene is off to his best start yet (so naturally he will probably blow a save today) https://t.co/920bxsXIiQ
— Bless You Boys (@blessyouboys) June 1, 2019
The Tigers' most desirable trade piece is closer Shane Greene, who is leading the AL in saves with 18. He could provide an immediate upgrade to a contender's bullpen.
Detroit could also explore trading Matthew Boyd, who is having an excellent season with a 2.85 ERA and 2.9 bWAR. The 28-year-old could be a solid option for a contender searching to solidify their rotation.