MLB Trade Rumors: Ranking Each Team's Best Major League Trade Asset

The MLB trade deadline is now less than two weeks away, and each major league team has gone through the process of identifying specific needs for their respective teams.

Some teams who will not be in the playoff hunt will be looking to stockpile players for the future while considering dealing away players that may not fit into their future plans. Teams looking to move on to the postseason will be considering players that can complement their rosters, while also identifying their own players that can be used as trade bait.

Whatever the case may, the next two weeks will certainly prove to be a moving experience, so to speak. With this particular article, Bleacher Report will look to identify each major league team’s biggest trade asset that they can use to either bolster their playoff chances, or to use to acquire players that can help their franchise in the future.

Here are each major league team’s best trade asset.

Doug Mead is a featured columnist with Bleacher Report. His work has been featured on the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, SF Gate, CBS Sports, the Los Angeles Times and the Houston Chronicle. Follow Doug on Twitter, @Sports_A_Holic.

Arizona Diamondbacks: Zach Duke

Two days after the MLB All-Star game, Arizona Diamondbacks general manager Kevin Towers told MLB.com that it was likely his team would be in buying mode at the trade deadline.

"I would say we're less likely a seller now, and more likely a buyer," Towers said. "So you do your due diligence—identifying what you think your major needs are going forward and identifying guys with clubs that may end up being sellers, and making sure you're getting multiple looks at those guys.

With that in mind, Towers is most likely looking for veteran relief help, and while most teams will be looking for prospects from Arizona, Towers will definitely listen to offers regarding pitcher Zach Duke.

Duke was just replaced in the D-Backs’ starting rotation by Barry Enright, and is currently listed in their bullpen depth chart. However, a contending team may be interested in Duke to add depth in their own starting rotations down the stretch.

Atlanta Braves: Nate McLouth

To say that center fielder Nate McLouth has been a massive disappointment in Atlanta is a vast understatement. Through injuries and slumps, McLouth has yet to get untracked with the Braves, now in his third season there.

At approximately $2.25 million for the rest of the season with a team option including a $1.25 million buyout for next season, Braves’ GM Frank Wren would be more than willing to deal McLouth to a team looking for outfield depth and a bat that could possibly heat up at any time.

Baltimore Orioles: Jeremy Guthrie

With the Baltimore Orioles now 18.5 games out of first in the American League East, there appears to be no question that they will be sellers in two weeks. While many have speculated about the status of Mark Reynolds and Derrek Lee, the Orioles biggest asset appears to be starter Jeremy Guthrie.

Recent reports suggest that the Detroit Tigers have expressed interest in Guthrie, with the O’s interested in getting pitching back in return. Guthrie is currently 3-13 with a respectable 4.45 ERA, and has received terrible run support throughout the year.

Boston Red Sox: Marco Scutaro

It’s no secret that the Boston Red Sox would love an additional right-handed bat in the outfield. While Josh Reddick has stepped up in a major way for the Sox, and with the return of Carl Crawford from the disabled list shortly, GM Theo Epstein would like a right-handed bat to complement the left-handed hitting outfield of Crawford/Ellsbury/Reddick/J.D. Drew.

With shortstop Marco Scutaro in the final year of his contract (team option for 2012, $1.5 million buyout), it’s possible that Epstein would consider listening to offers. Scutaro is essentially the bridge to young prospect Jose Iglesias, however with the uncertainty of the health of Jed Lowrie, Scutaro may not be going anywhere.

Chicago White Sox: Edwin Jackson

With no team taking control of the American League Central, the Chicago White Sox are hanging on, currently just four games out. While the Sox can certainly help themselves internally with both Adam Dunn and Alex Rios breaking out of season-long slumps, they do have some pieces to dangle as well.

Recent reports suggest that starting pitcher Edwin Jackson has been offered to contending teams. Scott Merkin of MLB.com reported on Sunday that Jackson certainly could find himself on the market.

“Jackson threw his third career shutout in Saturday's 5-0 victory over the Tigers, but Jackson also could be a pitcher on the trading block in the final year of his contract,” Merkin reported.

With John Danks soon to return from the disabled list, the White Sox will reportedly go to a six-man rotation. Jackson is in the final year of a two-year contract and doesn’t look to be retained. At approximately $2.8 million for the rest of the year, Jackson could be dealt to a contender as a rental who can contribute as a fifth starter.

Chicago Cubs: Aramis Ramirez

With a .300 batting average, 16 home runs and 56 runs batted in, Chicago Cubs third baseman Aramis Ramirez has arguably been the most consistent player for the Cubs in a season that has quickly become lost.

Ramirez has been widely reported to be on the trading block. However, Ramirez has a no-trade clause in his contract, and has said in the past he does not want to move his family out of Chicago. Any deal that GM Jim Hendry listens to will require Ramirez’ approval first.

Cincinnati Reds: Edgar Renteria

In six games since his call-up, shortstop prospect Zack Cozart has hit .400 for the Cincinnati Reds. While it’s certainly a small sample size, Cozart’s positive progress at the plate has driven veteran shortstop Edgar Renteria to the bench, and possibly as a trade chip to use to obtain veteran relief pitching.

Renteria, who has gained status as a postseason hero, is hitting just .231 with one home run this season. However at just approximately $700,000 for the rest of the season, Renteria could prove of great value to any contender looking for a veteran presence with playoff experience.

In a very crowded NL Central race between four teams, and the Reds only 3.5 games back despite being one game under .500, Renteria could absolutely create buzz and value for the Reds.

Cleveland Indians: Orlando Cabrera

The Cleveland Indians are still clinging to first place in the American League Central, and while several reports have the Indians looking for starting pitching, with the loss of Grady Sizemore to the 15-day disabled list with a right knee contusion, they may be in the market for an outfielder as well.

Orlando Cabrera appears to be the biggest major league trade asset for the Tribe at this point. GM Chris Antonetti will be reluctant to deal anyone from the 25-man roster at this point, but Cabrera could possibly bring back value in terms of starting pitching, if Cabrera is dealt with other pieces as well.

However, with Cord Phelps struggling along with a .196 average, O-Cab has regained his starting status at second base, so the option to trade O-Cab may be off the table.

Colorado Rockies: Ubaldo Jimenez

Over the past 72 hours, there have been numerous rumors surrounding Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez and his status. Recent reports suggested that Jimenez was drawing heavy interest from the New York Yankees, and Sports Illustrated reporter Jon Heyman reported that at least 12 teams inquired about the status of Jimenez.

Jimenez is under Rockies control until at least 2014 with a very team-friendly deal, so GM Dan O’Dowd would have to be blown away by any offer for Jimenez. On Sunday, O’Dowd told Denver Post reporter Troy Renck that "We would have to be absolutely overwhelmed. It would have to be a Herschel Walker deal."

Detroit Tigers: Ryan Raburn

The Detroit Tigers have been heavily rumored to be looking for a quality starter to add to their rotation. With Brendan Boesch, Austin Jackson and Magglio Ordonez firmly planted in the outfield, and with the emergence of utility player Andy Dirks, Ryan Raburn could be a trade asset that can be included in a deal to acquire starting pitching.

Raburn, despite a .213 average, has some pop in his bat and could add bench depth to a contender.

Florida Marlins: Randy Choate

At 35 years of age, Florida Marlins reliever Randy Choate has become one of the most dominant left-handed relief specialists in the game today. In 44 appearances for the Marlins this year, Choate has posted a 0.90 ERA in just 20 innings, being largely used as a one-out specialist against left-handed hitters.

With the Marlins moving to a brand new stadium next year, and the need to upgrade starting pitching and third base, Choate could absolutely be used as a valuable trade asset in any deal with a contending team.

Houston Astros: Hunter Pence

The Houston Astros, at 31-64, sport the worst record in the majors, and while several players have been rumored to be on the block for the Astros, the one most often mentioned and coveted by other teams is All-Star outfielder Hunter Pence.

Pence is under team control through 2013, and GM Ed Wade would have to be blown away to consider dealing Pence. With recent reports suggesting that new owner Jim Crane would like to cut payroll to about $60 million, it appears that starters Wandy Rodriguez and Brett Myers are better candidates for the trade deadline. However, that won’t stop teams from continuing to inquire about Pence.

Kansas City Royals: Wilson Betemit

With the worst record in the American League, the Kansas City Royals will clearly be sellers, and considering the youth movement that the Royals have undertaken (Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas), they will continue to move in that direction.

While recent rumors have suggested that outfielder Melky Cabrera could be dealt, Sports Illustrated baseball guru Jon Heyman tweeted that the Royals won’t be eager to deal either Cabrera or right fielder Jeff Francoeur. Heyman also noted that third baseman Wilson Betemit, who lost his starting job to Moustakas, is much more likely to be a major trade chip for the Royals.

The Los Angeles Angels and Milwaukee Brewers are at least two teams who have inquired about the availability of Betemit thus far.

Los Angeles Angels: Joel Pineiro

With the Los Angeles Angels just four games behind the red-hot Texas Rangers in the AL West, GM Tony Reagins has indicated that the Angels will look to upgrade their roster if the right deal were to come along, despite earlier reports that suggested owner Arte Moreno was unwilling to part with any more money.

If Reagins were looking to get creative in making a deal, starter Joel Pineiro would be an attractive option for many teams. Top starters Jered Weaver and Dan Haren aren’t going anywhere, and Pineiro is in the final year of his contract.

With a 5-4 record and 4.58 ERA in 15 starts, the 32-year-old Pineiro can definitely help to provide value for the Angels in the right deal.

Los Angeles Dodgers: Hiroki Kuroda

The Los Angeles Dodgers and their bankruptcy situation has certainly thrown a kink into the future of the Dodgers franchise. However one thing is for certain this season—the Dodgers will entertain offers for several of their players, including starter Hiroki Kuroda.

Kuroda, signed for $12 million this season, has already thrown his own kink into possible trade plans for the Dodgers as well. Kuroda, according to Peter Gammons of MLB.com, will not accept a trade to an East Coast team, severely narrowing the field of candidates for GM Ned Colletti and the Dodgers.

Milwaukee Brewers: Craig Counsell

It’s no secret that the Milwaukee Brewers are looking to upgrade the left side of their infield. The combination of Yuniesky Betancourt, Casey McGehee, Craig Counsell and Josh Wilson have combined to rank just 28th in all of MLB in production at both positions.

In a four-team race for the AL Central crown, the Brewers could dangle Counsell for some added help. Considering the Brewers have a depleted minor-league system with deals this past offseason to acquire Zack Greinke and Shawn Marcum, GM Doug Melvin may have to get creative with current roster players to acquire an upgrade at either position.

Minnesota Twins: Michael Cuddyer

Minnesota Twins' all-around utility man and chief bottle washer Michael Cuddyer remains the apple of other teams’ eyes during the trade deadline window. However on Sunday, Minneapolis Star-Tribune reporter Joe Christensen cited a team source as saying that Cuddyer would not be traded by the Twins, and would instead be courted by Minnesota with a contract renewal.

Nonetheless, the Phillies, Braves and Giants have all shown interest in recent weeks with scouts at recent Twins games, and GM Bill Smith recently stated that the Twins, currently six games back in the AL Central with a 44-50 record, will be contenders when all is said and done.

While Cuddyer may be the Twins biggest trade asset, look for him to stay right where he is, and possibly for longer than this season.

New York Mets: Carlos Beltran

Now that closer Francisco Rodriguez has been dealt to the Milwaukee Brewers, New York Mets right fielder Carlos Beltran may just be the hottest name on the trade market right now. According to Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com, the Mets will pick up the remainder of Beltran’s salary for this season (approximately $6 million). However in return, the asking price will be higher.

Since Beltran’s contract states that the Mets cannot receive draft compensation for Beltran should he choose to sign with another team at the end of the season, Alderson will look to get value now for Beltran. ESPN’s Buster Olney tweeted that because of the Mets’ offer to pick up the remainder of Beltran’s salary, just about every team interested is back in play.

New York Yankees: Take Your Pick

It has been a long time since the Yankees have been sellers, and it won’t change this year, either. However, that doesn’t mean they may not look to move a man or two if GM Brian Cashman can get at least equal value or better in return.

Wait a minute—we’re talking about the Yankees here, aren’t we? While there may be many players on their roster who would be considered assets on any team, don’t look for the Yankees to unload anyone while they’re in the midst of a fight with the rival Boston Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays.

Oakland Athletics: Grant Balfour

Relief pitching is and continues to be exactly what teams are searching for, and there are definitely names out there available for contending teams. The Oakland A’s have several, but reliable reliever Grant Balfour may be the biggest asset.

Signed for $8.1 million through 2012 with a team option for 2013, Balfour would clearly be more than just a two-month rental player. However Balfour is one of the premier setup men in the game, and has shown that this season as well, with a 4-1 record, a 2.21 ERA and 15 holds.

General manager Billy Beane has always regarded relievers to be overvalued commodities, so he should have no problem dealing Balfour for the right package of return prospects.

Philadelphia Phillies: Ben Francisco

With the best record in baseball, the Philadelphia Phillies will certainly be buyers, however GM Ruben Amaro Jr. will listen to offers for current roster players, if it means an upgrade for the playoff push.

My guess is that player just might be struggling right fielder Ben Francisco. With Domonic Brown now getting the bulk of playing time in right field and Francisco not getting added playing time with the injury to Shane Victorino, he is clearly not viewed as a viable option for the Phillies.

Including Francisco with prospects could possibly entice Amaro to unload him if the right deal came into play.

Pittsburgh Pirates: Ryan Doumit

For the first time in 19 years, the Pirates are not only considering buying, they’re actively looking for upgrades. At just one half game out of first place in a crowded race for the NL Central title, the Pirates will indeed look to upgrade, most likely with outfield help and pitching.

While catcher Ryan Doumit is still on the disabled list with a left ankle sprain and scheduled to begin a minor league rehab assignment this week, his return is imminent. However with Chris Snyder on the 60-day DL and probably lost for the season, Doumit’s trade status and the fact that Pittsburgh is playing for a postseason berth for the first time in 1992 makes it extremely unlikely that Doumit is going anywhere.

San Diego Padres: Heath Bell

There are several players on the San Diego Padres who have drawn huge trade interest, including Ryan Ludwick, Mike Adams, Chad Qualls and others. However, closer Heath Bell would be the prized catch for many teams.

According to Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com, the Texas Rangers have shown interest in both Bell and Adams, and have prospects to deal in return. The Phillies have also expressed interest. However, the Padres would want more than the two draft picks they would receive for Bell as a Type A free agent. So the deal would have to include prospects who are close to major-league ready.

San Francisco Giants: Mike Fontenot

The San Francisco are currently 3.5 games ahead of the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NL West and are clearly looking to successfully defend their World Series championship. GM Brian Sabean will be actively looking to upgrade an offense that ranks last in the NL in runs scored and second to last in team batting average.

The most egregious position would be at shortstop, where the combination of Miguel Tejada and Brandon Crawford just simply hasn’t worked.

GM Brian Sabean has already indicated that the team isn’t willing to give up good prospects in order to upgrade, but maybe Mike Fontenot could be a draw? Fontenot would be a valuable utility infielder down the stretch for man contending teams, and Sabean will have to be a bit creative if he’s looking to upgrade his offense without sacrificing prospects.

Seattle Mariners: Jason Vargas

According to Danny Knobler at CBSSports.com, the Mariners have suggested that they will talk to teams about their starters, and Jason Vargas would attract the most attention. Vargas is 6-7 with a 3.68 ERA in 19 starts for an offensively challenged Mariners team, and would clearly benefit from more run support with a contending team.

Vargas is under team control through 2013 and signed to just $2.45 million this year, so team currently looking for starters such as the Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians. Vargas would be an attractive and inexpensive option.

St. Louis Cardinals: Colby Rasmus

In a crowded NL Central race, the St. Louis are right in the thick of things, and with Jon Paul Morosi of FoxSports.com reporting that the Cards are looking for starters, outfielder Colby Rasmus could be a piece to be used for trade bait.

Rasmus has asked for a trade in the past, leading to suspicion that the Cards and Rasmus for some reason don’t see eye to eye. However, GM John Mozeliak recently stated dealing Rasmus before the trade deadline is “highly unlikely.”

Still, the Washington Nationals, Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox have all inquired about the availability of Rasmus. Mozeliak could put together a multi-team deal to get the starter he wants and needs, using Rasmus as a chip.

Tampa Bay Rays: B.J. Upton

In FoxSports.com reporter Jon Paul Morosi’s most recent column, he suggested that the Rays may be dreaming in thinking that they can overtake either the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees for the AL East title or a Wild Card spot.

If that were the case, the Rays could certainly listen to offers for B.J. Upton. The Nationals have long held interest in Upton, and the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves could also have interest. Executive VP Andrew Friedman is one of the bright minds in the majors, and no doubt will deal Upton if the return makes sense for the future of the Rays.

Texas Rangers: David Murphy

Utility outfielder David Murphy has been a valuable piece of the Texas Rangers ever since his arrival from the Boston Red Sox in 2007. At times filling in for injuries to Josh Hamilton and Nelson Cruz, Murphy has more than capably supplied a needed bat in the lineup during their absences.

However, beat reporter T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com believes that Murphy could bring value back for the Rangers, who are looking for quality relief help down the stretch.

When asked the question whether or not Murphy could be used as a trade chip, Sullivan said:

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“The Rangers would almost certainly consider a trade that sends Murphy to another team and a quality reliever coming in return. The Rangers would be reinforcing their bullpen and be able to call up Chris Davis from Triple-A Round Rock. When Murphy is swinging the bat well as he did in the second half of last season, he is a valuable commodity at a time when the quality of offensive production from outfielders is way down all through the big leagues.”

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Toronto Blue Jays: Jason Frasor

The Toronto Blue Jays have a bevy of relievers that will provide a clear value in return for the Jays. However, Jason Frasor could be the most coveted of all of them.

Jon Paul Morosi of FOXSports.com tweeted that the St. Louis Cardinals have inquired about several Jays relievers, including Frasor. Signed at $3.5 million this season, Frasor’s cost for the rest of the year would be about $1.2 million, and with a 3.23 ERA in 42 appearances, Frasor could fetch a nice return value for the Jays.

Washington Nationals: Tyler Clippard

The Washington Nationals are sitting at 48-48, 11.5 games behind the Philadelphia Phillies and 8.5 games behind the Atlanta Braves in the AL East. While their .500 is certainly better than had been expected, the Nationals still need several pieces to move to the next level.

With their interest in upgrading at center field, the Nats have starters they can move, such as Jason Marquis and Tom Gorzellany. However the real value is in their bullpen, with both Drew Storen and Tyler Clippard.

The Nats have received calls regarding Clippard’s availability. He is under team control through 2015, making him an attractive option for nearly every team needing quality bullpen help.