MLB Trade Rumors: Updating the Top 5 Prospects on the Block This Winter

As we move deeper into the offseason, trade rumors are starting to emerge left and right—some more believable than others. While most discussions have seemingly involved exclusively big league talent, there have been several based upon a potential prospect package. However, only a few organizations have the farm system depth to consider trading prospects this winter.

Here’s a look at five prospects who have been rumored to be on the trading block. 

Trevor Bauer, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks

As I wrote about last night, the Diamondbacks are reportedly listening to offers for top prospect Trevor Bauer after a falling out with the organization, per ESPN.com’s Jerry Crasnick.

Considered to be damn close to big league-ready, and having made four starts in the major leagues, Bauer could yield a substantial return for the Diamondbacks. 

James Paxton, LHP, Seattle Mariners

The Kansas City Royals are still in need of pitching after acquiring Ervin Santana from the Los Angeles Angels earlier this month. One name that appears to be on their radar is Mariners pitching prospect James Paxton.

Considered to have less upside than the team’s top arms, RHP Taijuan Walker and LHP Danny Hultzen, the Royals are said to be very interested in the 24-year-old left-hander. And they heavily scouted one of his early Arizona Fall League starts, according to Geoff Baker of the Seattle Times.

Carlos Martinez, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals

With the St. Louis Cardinals expected to lose only Kyle Lohse to free agency, they will presumably have one spot to fill in their rotation.

According to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, their depth of young, right-handed pitching could allow them to make a trade this offseason to address their needs.

While it’s unlikely that Shelby Miller will be on the move, there’s a chance that Trevor Rosenthal or Carlos Martinez may be.

Martin Perez, LHP, Texas Rangers

Rumored to be one of the Texas Rangers’ top trade chips at last season’s trade deadline, Martin Perez was ultimately not moved but spent the second half of the year bouncing between the starting rotation, bullpen and Triple-A.

Given the Rangers’ surplus of prospects—more so infielders than pitchers—Perez, 21, is still young and figures to be highly coveted once again this offseason.

DiDi Gregorius, SS, Cincinnati Reds

Now that Billy Hamilton has been moved to center field, the Cincinnati Reds have one less shortstop to worry about. With Zack Cozart coming off a .246/.288/.399 season in 2012, the organization may be able to move DiDi Gregorius, who served as a September call-up.

Gregorius, 22, is an excellent defensive shortstop like Cozart, posting a .717 OPS in 129 games between Double-A Pensacola and Triple-A Louisville.