MLB Trade Rumors: Mike Adams, Heath Bell Not the Only Padres Being Targeted

The Padres' Heath Bell may be the hottest trade candidate in baseball, but another Padres pitcher, Aaron Harang, has flown under the radar—until now.

Bell is targeted by countless teams—Padres' setup man Mike Adams is also a player of interest but would cost more than closer Heath Bell (roughly a top 25 prospect in return)—but Padres' starter Harang has received little attention. His trade value is insignificant when compared to Bell but still could be a useful addition to a starting five in a playoff contending team, something the Padres are not.

This is what AL Central contending teams are thinking. Both the Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers are now showing interest in the 33-year-old, who has made a comeback in 2011 playing in a pitcher-friendly park. Ubaldo Jimenez would be the best possible scenario for any buyer, but if that doesn't pan out for either of these teams, Harang could be the man.

The Cleveland Indians lead the Central Division by a half game over the Detroit Tigers. Both are targeting a number of pitchers, but the price may be right if either team can strike a deal for the veteran pitcher.

Harang had come off multiple poor years in Cincinnati and found a spot on the starting rotation in his home city of San Diego. Due to a horrible offense, the Padres have fallen from greatness in 2011. Harang, if given some run support, could rise back to being an elite pitcher.

The starter signed a one-year deal with San Diego, but the Padres may want to receive a prospect or two in exchange for Harang by the trade deadline.