MLB Trade Rumors: 50 Potential Trade Chips Who Will Not Be Moved at the Deadline

The trade deadline is rapidly approaching, and for the past couple months, the baseball world has been a flurry of trade speculation, and with teams now clearly established as buyers or sellers, the market becomes even clearer.

Just like any season, all of the rumors will not come to fruition, and that is what makes them rumors. That is what makes the rumor mill such a fascinating part of the baseball season.

So here is a look at 50 players who have been involved in rumors at one point or another who will not be traded at the deadline this season.

RF Ryan Spilborghs, Colorado Rockies

Why He Could Be Traded

While there are a number of intriguing outfield options on the market, they are all relatively pricey both in terms of salary and what it will take to acquire them. That has made Spilborghs and attractive option, as thanks to his $1.95 million contract and the fact that he is 31 years old, he would come cheap on both fronts.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The Rockies have come right out and said that Spliborghs is not available. The emergence of Seth Smith in right field has relegated him to a bench role, but the team still views him as a valuable piece and one they intend to hold onto. While these statements are commonplace when it comes to star players, they can be taken a bit more seriously when it is a player such as Spliborghs that they are talking about.

RP Luke Gregerson, San Diego Padres

Why He Could Be Traded

The Padres have a wealth of arms in their bullpen and seem willing to part with all of them if the price is right. Heath Bell, Mike Adams, Chad Qualls and Gregerson form arguably the best bullpen in all of baseball, and they will no doubt be broken up as the Padres look to load up on prospects and begin rebuilding.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While Bell and Qualls seems like sure things to be traded, Adams and Gregerson could stick around if the Padres don't get the package they want for them. Gregerson is making just $447,800 this season and is under team control until 2015. He has been a steady workhorse since breaking into the league in 2009 and he will likely stick around, as the Padres won't want to leave their young starters without any bullpen to back them up.

UT Jeff Baker, Chicago Cubs

Why He Could Be Traded

When the trade deadline rolls around, relief pitching and good hitting utility players are something that virtually every contender looks to add to their postseason roster. Baker fits the bill of both, as he can play first, second, third and the corner outfield positions, and he is hitting .301 BA, 2 HR, 18 RBI in limited playing time this season.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The Cubs have stated that Baker is not available, and while teams saying a player is not available and then trading him is not uncommon, the Cubs seem serious when it comes to Baker. He is under team control through next season, and while he will no doubt get a raise in arbitration from the $1.175 million he is making this season, he will still be a great value next season and someone it makes sense for the team to hold onto.

RP Jason Isringhausen, New York Mets

Why He Could Be Traded

The 38-year-old Isringhausen has been one of the feel good stories of the 2011 season, as he has returned to baseball after pitching just nine games in 2009 and sitting out all of the 2010 season. He has been stellar this season, with a 2.93 ERA in 30.2 innings of work. He is low-cost making him an attractive trade piece, and the Mets could look to move him and his unexpected value.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Isringhausen returned to the Mets, the place where he started his career, for one last hurrah before retiring, and with K-Rod traded to the Brewers, he picked up his first save of the season last night. A fitting end of this career would be for him to close out games with the team that drafted him all the way in the 44th round of the 1991 draft. One place he could end up is St. Louis, as a return to the place he was at his best is not out of the question.

SS Jason Bartlettt, San Diego Padres

Why He Could Be Traded

With the Padres out of the race and heading for a rebuild, and the trade market incredibly thin at shortstop, the Padres could get more than they deserve for a player like Bartlett. Brought in to shore up their middle infield along with Orlando Hudson, Bartlett has hit just .244 this season, and while he has been a disappointment in San Diego, a team like the Cardinals would love to have him

Why He Won't Be Traded

The Padres gave up a good amount to get Bartlett this past offseason, moving four prospects to land the former All-Star shortstop. He is under contract though next season, and if they can't get a similar return for him, they will likely hold onto him for next season and see if his value improves.

RF Garrett Jones, Pittsburgh Pirates

Why He Could Be Traded

The Pirates find themselves in uncharted territory this season, as they are expected to be full-on buyers at the deadline. They have holes at shortstop and third base and could also use an upgrade over first baseman Lyle Overbay. One attractive trade chip they hold is right fielder Jones, who provides the always coveted power from the left side of the plate. Even with the Pirates as buyers, they could move Jones to shore up their infield.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While using Jones as trade bait for a shortstop is a possibility, a more likely scenario at this point seems to be the Pirates trading for an outfielder, sliding Jones to first base and moving Overbay to the bench. The team has little reason to trade Jones now, as he is making just $456,000. He is arbitration eligible for the first time next season, but at 30 years old and with only adequate numbers, he will still be a bargain moving forward.

RP Grant Balfour, Oakland Athletics

Why He Could Be Traded

Balfour, part of the vaunted Rays bullpen last season that was completely dismantled in free agency, has been lights out once again as a setup man. However, the Athletics are out of the race in the AL West, and with Balfour due to make $4 million next season and the small market team in need of several pieces in the lineup to contend, they could look to move Balfour to free up that money.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Considering the success that Balfour has had throughout his career, the Athletics will not be looking to simply dump his salary and will want at least one solid prospect in return. Considering the money he is owed and what it will take to get him, coupled with the fact that this is the deepest relief pitching crop on the market in years, could very well mean that Balfour stays put.

3B Chone Figgins, Seattle Mariners

Why He Could Be Traded

While he has been horrible this season, and he is due an absurd $28 million over the next three seasons, there is always a market for veteran players capable of playing multiple positions, and if the Mariners eat the majority of his contract, they may be able to move Figgins and cut their losses.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Since his final season with the Angels, Figgins has been a different player in Seattle, and while the team would love to get rid of him, they are likely to hold onto him for the time being. With the speedster hitting just .183 this season, they would be wise to see if he can turn things around next season and actually net something in return, especially considering they will have to take on so much of the contract.

2B Aaron Hill, Toronto Blue Jays

Why He Could Be Traded

When the Blue Jays declined their team options on Hill for 2012-2014 prior to the season, it seemed a sure thing that he would be traded at some point this year before hitting free agency in the offseason. While it has not happened yet, there are a number of teams with a need up the middle, and Hill has the potential to be a difference maker offensively.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The fact of the matter is, with his low batting average and so-so fielding ability, the only real asset that Hill brought to the table was his power, as he hit 62 home runs over the past two seasons entering 2011. However, even that is gone this season, as he has hit just four longballs. You need look no further than his 0.4 WAR to see that Hill is little more than a role player at this point, and he has little if any trade value.

SS Stephen Drew, Arizona Diamondbacks

Why He Could Be Traded

Drew, a former first-round pick back in 2004, has been as consistent as anyone shortstop in baseball the past four seasons, averaging a line of .268 BA, 15 HR, 63 RBI. However, he has never quite lived up to the lofty expectations that many throughout baseball had for him, and he is set to make $17.75 million over the next two seasons. In what is a very weak trade market at shortstop, the Diamondbacks could get a good return on Drew despite him having a sub par season.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Despite the fact that Drew is hitting just .254 BA, 5 HR, 45 RBI this season, he is still a solid shortstop in his prime, and even though his numbers are down, the Diamondbacks would demand a steep price for him. I think the team would be willing to move him for the right deal, but I do not see anyone meeting what the Diamondbacks asking price would be.

SP Vance Worley, Philadelphia Phillies

Why He Could Be Traded

While the Phillies remain the favorite in the National League, they could still stand to make some big moves at the deadline and are a team that has not shied away from such a thing in years past. The team is in the market for a long-term replacement for Raul Ibanez in left field as well as a closer to fill out a depleted bullpen. If they go after someone like Hunter Pence or Heath Bell to fill those roles, that could mean including Worley in the deal.

Why He Won't Be Traded

With Roy Oswalt's status uncertain moving forward and Joe Blanton struggling this season, what was hailed as possibly the best rotation ever suddenly has some holes at the bottom. Worley has stepped into Oswalt's vacated spot and been lights out, posting a 5-1 record in nine starts with a pristine 2.15 ERA. The Phillies have a wealth of pitching talent at the Single-A level and those are the guys they would likely include in any major deals, not Worley, who is needed in the present to compete.

3B Mark Reynolds, Baltimore Orioles

Why He Could Be Traded

The Orioles re-stocked their infield prior to this season, as they picked up Derek Lee, J.J. Hardy and Mark Reynolds in an effort to bolster their offense and provide some support for their young pitching staff. However, the team is once again out of contention, and with Hardy recently signed to a long-term deal and Lee struggling, Reynolds could be their most trade able piece. 

Why He Won't Be Traded

While Reynolds can be had, he is due $7.5 million next season with a $11 million option in 2013 and a contender like the Tigers looking for a rental player to plug in at third base may not be willing to take on someone they have to commit that much money to moving forward. Especially not one as one-dimensional as Reynolds.

SP Mark Buehrle, Chicago White Sox

Why He Could Be Traded

The White Sox have a wealth of starting pitching, evidenced by the fact that they have employed a six-man rotation much of the season, and with the team on the edge of falling out of contention, they could look to deal free agents to be Edwin Jackson or Mark Buehrle at the deadline. After a tough start, Buehrle has put together a great season with a 3.38 ERA and a 7-5 record, and he certainly has a good deal of trade value.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Although a team like the Yankees would no doubt give up a good deal to land Buehrle, the White Sox have said that they would like to re-sign the left-hander in the offseason. In this day and age when players shuffle teams on a regular basis, Buehrle has started 353 games over 12 seasons in spending his entire career with the South Siders. The only place I could see him okaying a deal to is to his hometown Cardinals, but that seems like a stretch.

LF Josh Reddick, Boston Red Sox

Why He Could Be Traded

It is no secret that the biggest hole in the Red Sox lineup is in right field, where J.D. Drew has hit just .222 BA, 4 HR, 22 RBI this season, and there is at least a handful of options out there to replace him. However, with a rash of injuries to their starting rotation, the Red Sox could also look to make a splash at the deadline and add a big name starter. That could man moving the 24-year-old Reddick, who is someone who could contribute immediately to another team. 

Why He Won't Be Traded

Reddick has long been on the Red Sox prospect radar since putting together a .305 BA, 18 HR, 72 RBI line in his first pro season after being taken in the 17th round of the 2006 draft. While he is an attractive trade chip for the Red Sox, he could also be the answer in right field looking beyond the 2011 season. He has hit .347 BA, 4 HR, 18 RBI in 75 at bats so far this season, and while the team may still look to add an outfielder for this season, don't expect to see Reddick going anywhere.

RP Leo Nunez, Flordia Marlins

Why He Could Be Dealt

The Marlins have made Nunez available, and he could be an attractive option for a team looking for a lower-cost option than guys like Heath Bell or Matt Capps. With so many teams in the market for a reliever, seemingly every contender would at least have some level of interest in adding the Marlins closer.

Why He Won't Be Dealt

While there will be suitors, the relief pitching market is a deep one, and with Nunez under team control through next season, the Marlins' asking price will likely be a fairly steep one. At 27 years old, Nunez is seemingly just entering his prime, and I would not be surprised at all to see the Marlins try to lock up their closer to a multi-year deal in the near future.

RF Jeff Francoeur, Kansas City Royals

Why He Could Be Traded

A simple look back at the past two seasons how that Francoeur has been as well traveled as anyone in the big leagues, playing for the Braves, Mets, Rangers and Royals since his career started out with a bang in Atlanta. He is quite the bargain this time around, making just $2.5 million this season with a $4 million option next season, and he has returned to his early career form with a line of .264 BA, 13 HR, 58 RBI, 15 SB so far this season. His value is higher than the Royals could have intended, and they may want to move him now while his value is high.

Why He Won't Be Traded

For the first time in years, there is some hope in Kansas City, as they have begun to tap into what is the best farm system in all of baseball, and the infusing of youth throughout the roster has made the Royals relevant once again. Francoeur has a mutual option next season for just $4 million, and he has made it clear that he would like to remain in Kansas City. The team is short on outfield prospects in their system, and for what he is making and scheduled to make, Francoeur is among the best bargains in all of baseball and worth holding onto.

RP Jason Frasor, Toronto Blue Jays

Why He Could Be Traded

Over the past couple seasons, it seems as though anyone in need of relief pitching need look no further than the Toronto bullpen, as they have had a bevy of good arms and seem to be willing to part with any and all of them for the right price. Frasor may be the best of the bunch, as he is a seasoned veteran and someone who no doubt has what it takes to handle a pennant race.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Despite his value, the Jays have been reluctant to deal Frasor in the past, and he seems to be an organization favorite. He has spent all eight seasons of his career in Toronto and made 454 appearances for the team in every bullpen role possible. He is by no means untouchable, but his strong ties to the organization could mean he is staying put and eying an extension this offseason.

3B Chase Headley, San Diego Padres

Why He Could Be Traded

It is hard to believe that the Padres were right in the thick of things in the NL West at this point last season, as they are among the worst teams in all of baseball right now. When that happens and a team is on the cusp of a major rebuilding effort, the entire roster becomes at least somewhat available at the deadline, and that is the case with the Padres this season. Outside of their stacked bullpen, the only players that could land much in a trade are Ryan Ludwick and Headley, so he could certainly be moved for the right price.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While he will never have prototypical power at third base, Headley has taken a big step forward offensively this season, as his slash line of .300/.390/.401 is impressive and represents career highs across the board. Simply put, he gets on base, and with 25 doubles already this season, he does have some pop in that bat. Considering he is under team control until 2015, he could be a piece the team tries to build around, as he has only gotten better since joining the big league team in 2007.

RP John Axford, Milwaukee Brewers

Why He Could Be Traded

The Brewers pulled off a bit of a surprise when they traded for Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez, as Axford has done a fine job this season with 25 saves and a 2.84 ERA on the season. However, now that K-Rod is in the fold, there has been speculation that the Brewers may look to move Axford to help upgrade the left side of their infield.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While the left side of the infield does need help, the Brewers essential make a lateral move if they deal Axford, as he has been just as good as, if not better than, Rodriguez so far this season, and having them both makes the bullpen a strength. Look for the team to look for a low-cost utility player to help their infield situation.

SP Manny Banuelos, New York Yankees

Why He Could Be Traded

The Yankees have never been a team that makes prospects completely untouchable, and it seems as though they are always willing to move the big name prospect for the big name veteran at the deadline. Banuelos has moved to the head of the class as far as pitching prospects in the organization go, and if someone such as Felix Hernandez or Jered Weaver are to be had, it would almost certainly cost the Yankees Banuelos.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Even more so than Dellin Betances, the Yankees seems committed to developing Banuelos, and while he is still just 20 years old, he could be in line for a late season call up, and if nothing else, will be given a legitimate shot at the rotation next spring. Considering I do not believe King Felix or Weaver will be made available, I don't think Banuelos will be going anywhere.

SP Dellin Betances, New York Yankees

Why He Could Be Traded

Just like with Banuelos, it would take acquiring someone like Felix Hernandez or Jered Weaver for the Yankees to part with Betances, and while there is still an outside chance that that could happen, that is the only way either hurlers will be moved at the deadline.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Betances is a force on the mound, and while Banuelos may have the greater upside, there is no doubt that Betances is more big league ready at this point in his career. The right-hander stands an intimidating 6'8" and weighs 255 pounds. He has dominated Double-A pitching this season to the tune of a 2.90 ERA and 93 Ks in 80.2 innings. The Yankees will hold onto him, and look for both Betances and Banuelos to be in the rotation by 2012.

CF Michael Bourn, Houston Astros

Why He Could Be Dealt

Simply put, as bad as the Astros have been this season, there is a chance that everyone on the roster could be moved at the deadline, as the team has a lot of rebuilding to get back into contention. However, the fact of the matter is they do not have all that many desirable players, although Bourn certainly is one. The speedster has led the NL in steals the past two seasons and has a league best 35 already this season. He is already 28 years old and set for a raise in arbitration next season and free agency the year after.

Why He Won't Be Dealt

While the Astros have all the reason in the world to be sellers, their asking prices on Bourn, Wandy Rodriguez and Hunter Pence have been extremely high, and that is due in large part to the new ownership not being ready to completely blow up the team. Bourn is one of the few bright spots in Houston these days, and the team will likely hold onto him for at least another season and perhaps move him at the deadline next season before he hits free agency.

SP Jeremy Guthrie, Baltimore Orioles

Why He Could Be Traded

Year in and year out, starting pitching is the hottest commodity at the trade deadline, as contenders are always looking to shore up their rotation due to injury or ineffectiveness as they make the stretch run. Despite an AL-leading 13 losses on the season, Guthrie has an ERA of just 4.45, and he has certainly pitched well enough to have a better record.

Why He Won't Be Traded

It seems as though every season at the deadline Guthrie's name comes up as someone who could be made available, but until now, the Orioles' asking price has always been too high for anyone to bite. With a number of options available on the market this season, and the Orioles once again asking for a pretty penny for Guthrie, chances are he will be in Baltimore still when August 1 rolls around.

SP Zach Wheeler, San Francisco Giants

Why He Could Be Traded

The Giants could be a team looking to make a splash at the deadline, as their offense is in desperate need of a jolt, and there are a number of impact players available on the market this season. Any big deal they pull off would almost certainly begin with Wheeler, the team's top prospect. With so many good starting pitchers at the big league level, the team may be willing to mortgage their future for a chance to win it all again now.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Taken sixth overall in the 2008 draft, Wheeler is among the top pitching prospects in all of baseball, and he has been stellar at High Single-A so far this season, with a 3.70 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 82.2 innings pitched. By the time he is big league ready, likely sometime in the 2013 season, Jonathan Sanchez will likely be gone, and he could slide in nicely behind Lincecum, Cain and Bumgarner to give the Giants their own Big Four. Simply put, it would take Jose Reyes to pry Wheeler away from the Giants and even then they may reconsider.

C Devin Mesoraco/Yasmani Grandal, Cincinnati Reds

Why They Could Be Traded

After surprising everyone last season and taking the NL Central crown, the Reds find themselves in contention once again this year. They seem to have rectified their shortstop problems by calling up prospect Zack Cozart, but they still need a starting pitcher and have been linked to Ubaldo Jimenez and Wandy Rodriguez. With Ramon Hernandez and Ryan Hanigan at the big league level, and the duo of Mesoraco and Grandal doing well in the minors, the team could look to move a catcher to land a big time arm.

Why They Won't Be Traded

While the Reds seem to be shooting for a high profile arm at the deadline, they would be unwise to move Mesoraco (.295 BA, 9 HR, 51 RBI at Triple-A) or Grandal (.289 BA, 11 HR, 51 RBI at Double-A), as they are far too valuable at this point with the team in need of a catcher in the near future. Instead, look for it to be Yonder Alonso and one of the trio of Homer Bailey, Travis Wood and Mike Leake at the center of any big time deal in Cincinnati this July.

RF Michael Cuddyer, Minnesota Twins

Why He Could Be Traded

The Twins have been disappointing this season, and currently sit at 44-51 on the season in fourth place in the AL Central. Cuddyer, the team's lone All-Star, is certainly a player who has some value, as he is not only a very good hitter, but also offers some versatility with the ability to play first and second, as well as the outfield. He is set to be a free agent, and if the Twins don't think they can re-sign him, they may move him.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Despite their struggles this season, the Twins are still just seven games out of first place in the wide open AL Central. Cuddyer has carried the offense with Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau not producing at their usual levels. The team has stated that they will hold onto Cuddyer for the rest of the season and attempt to re-sign him at season's end.

SP Carlos Zambrano, Chiacgo Cubs

Why He Could Be Traded

Zambrano has had a tumultuous last couple of seasons in Chicago, and while he has been a more subdued Big-Z this season, he has also been a less effective one with a 4.78 ERA and just 6.2 K/9. He is no longer and ace, but he is still capable of being dominant, and if the Cubs were willing to eat some of the money, he is owed a team like the Yankees would be more than happy to have him.

Why He Won't Be Traded

There is no question the Yankees, and perhaps some other teams, have interest in Zambrano to bolster their rotation. However, the 30-year-old is owed $18 million next season, with a $19.25 million option in 2013, and that financial burden may be more than anyone is willing to take on, and chances are, if the Cubs are forced to eat that money in a trade, they will just hold onto the big right-hander.

CF Grady Sizemore, Cleveland Indians

Why He Could Be Dealt

With the Indians in contention this season, much to the surprise of most baseball fans, the team finds themselves in a position to decide whether or not they want to move prospects for now or stick with what they have. Regardless, Sizemore's name has been at the center of rumors all season, and with his contract set to expire at season's end, the team could certainly look to get something for a player they don't intend to retain.

Why He Won't Be Dealt

While the Indians would like to move Sizemore, he is currently beginning his third stint on the disabled list this season, and chances are, no contender will be willing to put any sort of reliance on a player with that sort of injury reputation. Instead look for the Indians to hold onto their former superstar in hopes that he puts it together in the season's final months while playing for his next contract.

SP Derek Lowe, Atlanta Braves

Why He Could Be Traded

Despite the fact that they are in contention, the Braves would be more than willing to part with Lowe and the $15 million that he is due next season, with Mike Minor ready to step into the rotation in his place. The Tigers in particular have shown interest in Lowe, and despite his 4.37 ERA this season, his postseason experience is invaluable for a contender looking for a starter.

Why He Will Not Be Traded

While the Braves would no doubt be willing to listen to offers for Lowe, they are not actively shopping him, and by no means do they need to get rid of him at the deadline. The team has youngsters Jair Jurrjens, Tommy Hanson and Brandon Beachy in the rotation and could benefit from keeping Lowe in the fold, along with Tim Hudson, to help the kids during the playoff push.

SP Jacob Turner/Andy Oliver, Detroit Tigers

Why He Could Be Traded

The Tigers have a very legitimate chance at winning the AL Central this season, but there are no doubt some issues that they will need to address at the deadline. In need of another starter, a third baseman and perhaps an outfielder, the Tigers could be among the most active players at this season's deadline. Any big deal they pull off will no doubt need to include one of their top pitching prospects Jacob Turner or Andy Oliver.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While the Tigers definitely need to add an arm and upgrade at third base, they do not necessarily need to make the big move. With Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer fronting the rotation, they will be more likely to go after a middle of the rotation starter, and with a weak third base class led by Aramis Ramirez and Wilson Betemit, they can upgrade their roster without moving their two top tier pitching prospects.

SP Jonathan Sanchez, San Francisco Giants

Why He Could Be Traded

The Giants are once again at the head of the pack in the NL West, but this season, they have several glaring holes that need to be addressed if they hope to return to the World Series. Among them is the middle of their infield, as well as the catcher position that has been vacated with the season ending injury of Buster Posey. With Sanchez arbitration eligible for the final time next season, and the team unlikely to sign him to an extension, he could be the piece they use to upgrade their lineup. 

Why He Won't Be Traded

The Giants know full well that the reason they have gotten this far is their pitching, and while Madison Bumgarner and All-Star Ryan Vogelsong have been solid this season, they would be wise to temper their expectations in the second half, as this will be by far the most work that either pitcher has gotten in their career. In the end, it could be Sanchez once again that fills the third starter spot, and he could be as important a player as any for the Giants down the stretch.

C Jesus Montero, New York Yankees

Why He Could Be Traded

No prospect in baseball has been as frequently rumored to be on the move as Montero has this season, and while it has not happened yet, it certainly still could. With three top catching prospects in Montero, Gary Sanchez and Austin Romine the Yankees have some depth at the backstop position that they could use in their favor. Montero would bring the biggest return, despite the fact that it remains to be seen if he will remain a catcher moving forward. Chances are, if the Yankees are presented with a chance to pickup a frontline starter, Montero would not hold up the deal.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The fact of the matter is, there simply is not a pitcher worth trading Montero for at the deadline. Unless the Rockies are willing to part with Ubaldo Jimenez or the Angels move Jered Weaver, it is not worth including the 21-year-old in a deal for someone like Wandy Rodriguez or Jeremy Guthrie. In fact, look for Montero to get a call up very soon, as the Yankees could look to add a bat from within the organization.

CF Colby Rasmus, St. Louis Cardinals

Why He Could Be Traded

For a 24-year-old player who was such a highly regarded prospect, Rasmus has seen his name pop up in trade rumors far more often than a player in his situation would expect. However, he has clashed with manager Tony LaRussa in the past and has never seemed like he was fully committed to the Cardinals organization. That may lead the team to decide that moving him now will be best for both sides.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While he is having a down year, hitting .241 BA, 9 HR, 36 RBI, the Cardinals would still ask for a superstar caliber package in return for Rasmus. If they can't get that, he is not going anywhere, as he has the potential to be a star and is a big piece of the puzzle moving forward for the Cardinals, especially if they are not able to retain Albert Pujols.

SP Francisco Liriano, Minnesota Twins

Why He Could Be Traded

With the Twins seemingly out of the AL Central race, many have speculated that Liriano could be made available at the deadline, as he is arbitration eligible for the final time next season and is due for a big raise. In what is a deep starting pitching field, Liriano would be among the most intriguing options available if the Twins decide to make him available.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While dealing Liriano may make sense in theory, the fact that he is struggling this season will keep him from being made available. With a 4.76 ERA, lower strikeout numbers and higher walk numbers, his value is not nearly as high as it would have been if he were pitching at the level that landed him AL Cy Young consideration last season. While he could certainly be a hot name at next year's deadline, he'll stay put until his value is a bit higher.

RF Andre Ethier, Los Angeles Dodgers

Why He Could Be Dealt

The 29-year-old Ethier is a free agent at the end of the 2012 season, and with the Dodgers financial woes, they may want to avoid paying him for the 2012 season when he will no doubt get a raise from the $9.25 million he made this season in arbitration.

Why He Won't Be Dealt

The core of Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier, along with pitcher Clayton Kershaw, are the Dodgers' best chance of returning to contention in the near future, and despite their financial problems, the team will do all they can to retain those three players moving forward.

RP Tyler Clippard, Washington Nationals

Why He Could Be Traded

The Nationals are a team that is looking to be in contention soon, and while Clippard has been great for them, they may be willing to move the setup man if it means upgrading at a more important position down the road. He is among the most attractive options on the market and would land the Nationals at least a couple good prospects if he is moved.

Why He Won't Be Traded

After winning 11 games in relief last season, Clippard has been dominant this year in a setup role with a 1.82 ERA and 68 strikeouts in 54.1 innings of work. He is making just $443,000 this season and will be first time arbitration eligible in the offseason. So while he is in line for a raise, he is still under team control until 2016, and he should be a cornerstone of the Nationals' rebuilding effort.

RF Carlos Quentin, Chicago White Sox

Why He Could Be Traded

There may be no bigger disappointment in all of baseball this season than the White Sox, as they were a sexy pick to at least win the AL Central and possibly more before the season started with as deep a rotation as there is in baseball and the addition of Adam Dunn. However, they are currently 4.5 games out and could be sellers if they fall any further back. While pitchers would be the first to go, dealing Quentin, who is set to be a free agent after next season, could also be in the cards.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While the White Sox have been disappointing this season, they are a team that will still be in a position to win now next season, and with Quentin still under team control next year, chances are they will hold onto him. He is making $5.05 million this season, and that will likely spike to the $7.5 million neighborhood at least next year. He'll be staying put this year, but he could be a hot target at the 2012 deadline.

3B Aramis Ramirez, Chicago Cubs

Why He Could Be Traded

Ramirez is enjoying a bounce back season this year, as he has remained healthy and is on pace for his best numbers since 2008 with a line of .300 BA, 17 HR, 58 RBI so far this season. The Angels and Tigers are both in the market for a third baseman and would likely be willing to give up a good deal to land Ramirez.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Ramirez has 10-and-5 rights with the Cubs, meaning he has full trade veto rights, and he has made it clear that he would like to play out this season in Chicago, and moving forward, would like to end his career with the Cubs. The Cubs went through this same scenario with Derek Lee last season, and he actually vetoed a trade to the Angels before accepting a deal to the Braves. Time will tell if Ramirez also gives in and accepts a deal, but he seems more adamant about staying in Chicago.

CF B.J. Upton, Tampa Bay Rays

Why He Could Be Traded

Upton, the second overall pick in the 2002 draft, has always had the tools to be a superstar, but he has not been able to duplicate the success he has in his first full season in 2007, when he hit .300 BA, 24 HR, 82 RBI, 22 SB. His maturity and focus have been questioned time and again, and many believe a change of scenery would be best for both sides. The Rays would no doubt benefit from the players they would get in return, as they again look to build their farm system into a legitimate contender in the AL East.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While he has not been the player he was in 2007 often, he is on a tear right now, and while that would no doubt increase his trade value, it has also left the Rays wondering if this is the time he puts it all together and takes the next step. They will likely see how this season plays out, and if they do decide to trade him, expect it to be in the offseason.

SP Wandy Rodriguez, Houston Astros

Why He Could Be Traded

After getting a late start to his big league career, not debuting until the 2005 season at the age of 26, Rodriguez has emerged as the Astros ace winning 34 games the past three seasons with an ERA of 3.36 and a solid 8.4 K/9 mark. He is off to another good start this season, with a 6-6 record and 3.67 ERA, and with the Astros clearly more than a couple years from contention, the Astros' best course of action with the 32-year-old pitcher may be to deal the left-hander while his value is at its highest.

Why He Won't Be Traded

It certainly makes sense for the Astros to trade Rodriguez as they continue to rebuild. They are also under new ownership, and that could mean the front office will be less willing to completely commit to a rebuilding effort as they try to keep a competitive team on the field as they rebuild.

RF Justin Upton, Arizona Diamondbacks

Why He Could Be Traded

The Diamondbacks have managed to stick around in the NL West into the second half this season, and while they remain just 3.5 games behind the Giants, they do not appear to have the horses to make a run this season. Moving Upton at the deadline would almost certainly net the Diamondbacks a loaded prospect package that would go a long way towards aiding their rebuilding efforts.

Why He Won't Be Traded

While the Diamondbacks may still be a few years away from legitimate contention, Upton is still only 23 years old. He made his second career All-Star game appearance this season, and he is on pace to post career highs in almost every offensive category. Upton is the kind of player you rebuild around, not one that you move to help a rebuild.

SP Matt Garza, Chicago Cubs

Why He Could Be Traded

This off season, the Cubs traded away their Minor League Pitcher of the Year Chris Archer, Minor League Player of the Year Brandon Guyer, Hak-Ju Lee, Robinson Chirinos and Sam Fuld to pick up Garza. Under team control until 2014, the Cubs viewed Garza as someone who could help them win now and moving forward. However, the team has fallen short this season, and could now look to rebuild in the years to come, so flipping Garza now makes some sense.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The Cubs have fallen out of the race early this season, and they certainly fall into the category of sellers, but in order to move Garza, they will be asking for a package similar to what they gave up to get him this past winter. Despite his 4-7 record, Garza has been very good this season, with a 3.97 ERA and 105 Ks in 102 innings pitched. He's not going anywhere unless the Cubs are blown away by the deal.

RP Mike Adams, San Diego Padres

Why He Could Be Traded

There is not a team in baseball that wouldn't love to add Adams to the back end of their bullpen, and the Padres are open for business and looking to move everyone from their loaded bullpen, as having a good bullpen doesn't mean much when you don't have a lead to protect. With a 1.38 ERA in 146.2 innings of work over the past three seasons, Adams will be as coveted as, if not more so than, any closer on the market.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The simple reason he won't be moved is the fact that Adams is under team control next season, so the asking price for him will be that of an All-Star closer, and potentially higher. Also, with Heath Bell all but a certainty to be traded, a year in the closer's role could boost Adams' value moving forward, and he could be a huge piece at the deadline next season for the Padres.

RF Hunter Pence, Houston Astros

Why He Could Be Traded

Pence has emerged as one of the best outfielders in all of baseball this season, making his second All-Star appearance while posting a line of .318 BA, 11 HR, 61 RBI and playing terrific defense in the process. That has made him a incredibly desirable trade piece, and with the Astros sitting at 31-65 on the season, they could be sellers to the greatest degree.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The Astros are clearly rebuilding, and while the players that Pence would net in return would certainly help with the rebuilding, they need a player to build around, and that player looks to be Pence. The 28-year-old outfielder is coming into his own this season, and the sheer level of scrutiny the new ownership would get for dealing their best player should be enough to keep him in town.

SP Jered Weaver, Los Angeles Angels

Why He Could Be Dealt

The Angels ace is making $7.365 million this season and is set for a hefty raise next season in his final year of arbitration. With the Angels long on pitching and short on offense this season, moving Weaver could help them revamp their offense and push them out ahead of the Rangers in the AL West and help them avoid ponying up this offseason.

Why He Won't Be Dealt

He is 12-4 with an AL-best 1.90 ERA this season and is well on his way to winning the AL Cy Young. While he could be moved at the deadline next season if an extension is not reached, you simply don't trade a player of Weaver's caliber when you are in contention.

CF Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers

Why He Could Be Traded

Simply put, the only reason the Dodgers would ever consider trading Kemp is because of their financial situation. He is set to hit free agency after the 2012 season, and if a long-term deal is not in the works, moving him could be.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Kemp may be the front runner for NL MVP right now despite the fact that the Dodgers have struggled, and at 26 years old, the .313 BA, 24 HR, 72 RBI, 27 SB line he has put up so far this season could be just the start of something great. His value is through the roof, and there is no trade package worth it for the Dodgers to move Kemp.

SP Felix Hernandez, Seattle Mariners

Why He Could Be Traded

To put it bluntly, the Mariners need an awful lot if they want to be legitimate contenders any time soon, and that is exactly what moving Hernandez would bring them. There is no doubt that if he were made available, teams would be willing to trade the farm for a chance to have King Felix front their rotation.

Why He Won't Be Traded

Trading away young ace pitchers is not the way you climb back into contention, and with the emergence of Michael Pineda, the Mariners have what could be baseball's next great duo in place for the next 10 seasons if they can hold onto them both. It would take someone like the Yankees a package of Jesus Montero, Manny Banuelos and perhaps even Dellin Betances to nab Hernandez, and it simply is not worth it for anyone involved to try to get the reigning AL Cy Young winner.

SS Hanley Ramirez, Florida Marlins

Why He Could Be Traded

While he has not been made available yet, there is certainly a chance that the Marlins could put their talented but struggling superstar on the market. With a number of teams looking for a shortstop and the market incredibly thin, the Marlins could find a team willing to pay top dollar for the 27-year-old. Despite a down year with a line of .255 BA, 9 HR, 41 RBI, 17 SB this season, he would still be the biggest name on the market if the Marlins made it official.

Why He Won't Be Traded

A couple main factors keep a potential Ramirez deal from happening in my mind. First is the fact that he is due $46 million over the next three seasons, which is a steep price to pay for a player who is struggling. Second is his sketchy history when it comes to his relationship with his teammates and coaches, which makes him a liability at times. Finally, and perhaps the biggest reason, is the fact that the Marlins are opening a new stadium next year and will want to have their star around for that.

SP Ubaldo Jimenez, Colorado Rockies

Why He Could Be Traded

The most recent big name player to be tossed into the trade deadline rumor mill is Jimenez, as the Rockies stated that they would listen to offers on anyone not named Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez. He has not been the same pitcher that he was last season, but he still has some of the best stuff in all of baseball and would be a huge pickup for a contender. If anyone offers the sort of deal that the Rockies are looking for, it could make them incredibly dangerous down the road.

Why He Won't Be Traded

The problem with this deal, however, is the asking price. While the Rockies have said they will listen to offers for him, by no means do they need to trade him, as he is under team control through 2014 and a bargain at just $17.95 million over the next three years. No one will be willing to give up two front-line prospects and a handful of other players for a player having a down year, and that's what it'll take.

SS Jose Reyes, New York Mets

Why He Could Be Moved

Many throughout baseball believed the Mets would be in full firesale mode at the deadline, as they prepare for an off season in which they have tens of millions of dollars coming off the books. While they remained competitive longer than many expected, they are all but out of the NL East race, and the trading should begin soon. Clearly their biggest trade chip is Reyes, who is set to be a free agent at season's end, and while they have stated that they will not trade him, if someone like the Giants offers up top pitching prospect Zach Wheeler, the Mets may change their mind, considering they would still have a shot at re-signing him even if they trade him now.

Why He Won't Be Moved

After suffering through injuries and ineffectiveness the past couple seasons, Reyes is on top of his game right now, and he has returned to the form that made him one of the most dynamic players in all of baseball. The Mets seem ready to do whatever it takes to keep him moving forward, and sending him out as a rental player could easily backfire and give the team he's traded to a leg up on re-signing him. The Mets won't risk losing their star, even if it is just for a couple months.