MLB Trade Rumors: Latest Buzz on Troy Tulowitzki, Jonathan Papelbon and More

The July 31 MLB trade deadline is fast approaching, and many general managers are faced with a brutal decision: Trade the team's best—and most expensive—assets in an effort to build for the future, or resist the urge and hope for a late-season push.

With a good amount of potential deals on the horizon, rumors have begun to surface all across the Web.

Which teams are looking to offload key players, and which ones are looking to become big buyers? Here's a look at some recent buzz involving a few household names from around the league.

Troy Tulowitzki

Dave Tulis/Associated Press

The Colorado Rockies shortstop doesn't appear overly satisfied with his team's current 39-53 record. Troy Tulowitzki is looking to join a winning team, and according to a report from Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com, he's let the Rockies know:

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Rockies superstar shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, frustrated by the team's continuing struggles, recently met with team brass and gave a subtle blessing to a trade for him, but only if the higher-ups felt it was best for all parties involved.

Tulowitzki's message was said to be something along these lines: "I love it in Colorado. I'd like to be here. But if things (don't improve), and you can (trade) me to a winning situation I'm OK with it."

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This year, Tulowitzki is set to make his fourth All-Star Game appearance. He's batting .350 with 104 hits, 17 doubles, one triple, 20 home runs and 49 RBI. According to ESPN Stats & Info, he's no stranger to 20-home run seasons:

It's probably a stretch to think the Rockies would deal their star shortstop; however, we can speculate he'd garner plenty of interest should he be placed on the trade block.

Jonathan Papelbon

Todd Kirkland/Associated Press

Speaking of players on struggling teams, the Philadelphia Phillies' 40-51 record isn't all that appealing to the team's closer.

Jonathan Papelbon is in the midst of his third season in Philadelphia, but he may not be there much longer, according to a tweet from Matt Gelb of The Philadelphia Inquirer:

It certainly appears as though he wants out.

If that tweet wasn't telling enough, here's a quote from Papelbon, via Gelb:

Papelbon is quietly having a nice season so far. He's pitched 36.1 innings, allowing 22 hits and five runs while striking out 32 batters for 22 saves and an ERA of 1.24.

If he wants out of Philadelphia badly, the team may be wise to move him while his stock is up.

Jorge De La Rosa

Morry Gash/Associated Press

This is a rather interesting situation for the Rockies.

Jorge De La Rosa is headed to free agency at season's end; however, the team may have a chance to unload him early to acquire something in return. Troy Renck of The Denver Post noted several teams are interested in the pitcher:

Jayson Stark of ESPN.com took the trade speculation one step further:

Stark's opinion is probably dead on. The Rockies would like a young impact starter in return; although, the 33-year-old southpaw may not currently hold enough value to warrant such a deal.

This season, De La Rosa has started 18 games and has a record of 9-6, giving up 85 hits and 55 runs while striking out 70 batters for an ERA of 4.75.

He could certainly help a contender's depth on the mound, but Colorado may have to lower its asking price in order to get a deal done.