MLB Trade Speculation: 6 Potential Destinations for Carlos Beltran

As the trade deadline draws near, Carlos Beltran is becoming more and more common in rumor talks.

He’s been repeatedly linked to the San Francisco Giants and has said he would play for the Boston Red Sox.

The Mets will probably wait until the trade deadline before trading Beltran. If they’re out of the playoff race, Mets GM Sandy Alderson is looking for top prospects in exchange for the 2011 All Star.

These are six teams that could be looking to pull Beltran on their team as they head toward the postseason.

Texas Rangers

Carlos Beltran could possibly be in a Rangers uniform by the end of the season. Prashanth Francis of Baseball Time in Arlington discusses how valuable Beltran is to them.

Texas has plenty of pitching prospects that could be used in a trade for Beltran. Josh Hamilton would likely play in center field and Beltran could replace Endy Chavez in left.

Beltran would bring a more consistent bat to Texas. As the Rangers look towards another playoff run another bat would help them tremendously.

Philadelphia Phillies

While it’s unlikely the Mets would deal with someone in the same division, the Phillies have plenty of choices when it comes to a trade.

He’d certainly be an upgrade over Raul Ibanez or Ben Francisco. He’d do well in the five-spot on the Philadelphia roster.

Atlanta Braves

The Braves are another team unlikely to do a trade with the Mets. However they do need a right-handed bat like Beltran and could look to make an offer.

They probably have more pitching prospect options than most of the other teams looking at Beltran.

Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers are definitely interested in Carlos Beltran, but they are looking for starting pitchers over offense.

The Tigers need more offensive help in the outfield and Beltran would fit that need. Detroit has never been shy about taking on a big contract, so if they decide to go in the direction of a big bat, Beltran could be the answer.

Boston Red Sox

Carlos Beltran could definitely help the Red Sox, but Boston may have an issue fitting him onto its payroll.

Their entire starting outfield is left-handed, though, as is the majority of their lineup. There’s a good chance the Red Sox will go after him and try to figure out a payroll answer.

Beltran’s right-handed power bat is just what the Red Sox are looking for.

San Francisco Giants

The San Francisco Giants are in dire need of some offensive help. Brian Wilson made it clear that Carlos Beltran was welcome in San Francisco. 

Both parties have been linked for a while. The Giants have several prospects that could help bring Beltran to the Giants.

Beltran would be a great addition to the team after both their leading hitters—Buster Posey and Freddy Sanchez—went down with injuries earlier on.