MLB Trade Rumors: How the Trade Block Has Changed Since Offseason Started

Since the MLB offseason started, there has been a lot of posturing among teams looking to rebuild for the 2012 season and beyond, but as of yet, not a whole lot of action. The biggest trade thus far has involved the Kansas City Royals acquiring Jonathan Sanchez from the San Francisco Giants for outfielder Melky Cabrera, a move that satisfies a need for both teams—additional offensive punch for the punch-less Giants, and a top-of-rotation starter for the Royals.

However, it’s the only major deal of the offseason so far, and with the just-ended GM talks in Milwaukee, many teams have no doubt discussed possible deals with each other, laying the framework for what could lie ahead in the coming weeks and months.

So, just how has the trading block been altered since the offseason began? We’ll take a look at each team’s needs, and who specifically has been linked to each team in various rumors.

Arizona Diamondbacks: Starting Pitching

Right now, the biggest need for the Arizona Diamondbacks is to find a quality arm in the rotation to back up both Ian Kennedy and Daniel Hudson. While Josh Collmenter showed tremendous improvement, GM Kevin Towers would no doubt love to bring in an arm that can step into the No. 3 spot in the rotation, allowing Collmenter to continue to develop at the back of the rotation.

There are developing pitchers in the D-Backs system that will vie for the back end of the rotation in Tyler Skaggs, Pat Corbin and Trevor Bauer, however, adding that one extra quality arm would be a huge addition for a D-Backs team that looks like it’s here to stay for a while.

Potential Candidates: John Danks, Gavin Floyd, Mat Latos, Matt Garza

Atlanta Braves: Long-Term Answer at Shortstop

The Atlanta Braves were not very active in the free-agent market last season, spending just over $6 million. It was the trade market that paid them big dividends last year, acquiring Dan Uggla from the Florida Marlins and Scott Linebrink from the Chicago White Sox.

This year could be much of the same for the Braves, as they look to make upgrades in left field and at shortstop. The Braves are high on prospect Tyler Pastornicky at short—however, he is likely not ready for the 2012 season.

Potential Candidates: Eduardo Nunez

Baltimore Orioles: Starting Pitching

New Baltimore Orioles vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette is tasked with a mighty responsibility—transform the O’s into a winning organization and rebuild a farm system that was considered the worst in baseball at the beginning of the season.

While Duquette no doubt has money to spend in order to start the transformation, he also will explore the trade market in an effort to bolster a starting pitching staff that was one of the worst in the American League in 2011. There are youngsters who have promise for the future (Tommy Hunter, Brad Bergesen, Chris Tilman, Zach Britton), but none of them are currently ready to lead at the top of the rotation.

Potential Candidates: Jair Jurrjens

Boston Red Sox: Starting Pitching

While the Boston Red Sox completed one of the most epic collapses in MLB history in September, they are not a team that needs to rebuild. GM Ben Cherington took over a team that indeed is well-positioned for the future, however he will absolutely need to look for starting pitching, considering the injuries to both John Lackey and Daisuke Matsuzaka.

Josh Beckett, Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz figure to be the top three for the Sox, and while that may sound like a formidable top three, their options at the back end of the rotation are slim. Cherington will likely balk at going after pricey options like C.J. Wilson, Mark Buehrle and Roy Oswalt, however the trade market offers some interesting options that are much more palatable to the payroll.

Potential Candidates: John Danks, Gio Gonzalez

Chicago Cubs: Third Base

With the Chicago Cubs looking to pursue high-priced free-agent targets at first base (Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols), they also have a major hole to fill at third base with the likely departure of Aramis Ramirez.

Free-agent options at third are slim, as the drop-off behind Ramirez is significant. However, they may be deals to be had in the trade market, and while the potential candidates will likely fall short of the production that Ramirez provided, they could still be worthwhile targets to pursue.

Potential Candidates: Chone Figgins, David Wright, Chase Headley

Chicago White Sox: Leadoff Hitter/Outfielder

The Chicago White Sox's "all in" plan for the 2011 season was clearly an unmitigated disaster, as the significantly increased payroll during the offseason produced just 79 wins and a bevy of bloated contracts.

GM Kenny Williams said at a press conference earlier this month that the team will be taking a much more long-term approach, given the results of last season.

"This was the most difficult season and we are still feeling some of the residual effects of it," Williams said. "At this point and time, we've got to take a step back and really allow ourselves to see the entire picture.

Williams will likely be looking at options in left field to replace the departing Juan Pierre. While he could decide that Alejandro de Aza could be the answer (.329 average, 12 stolen bases in 54 games), he will also be looking at possible trade scenarios as well.

Potential Candidates: No names have specifically been mentioned, but Williams did indicate that he received at least one "surprising trade proposal" at the recently concluded GM meetings in Milwaukee.

Cincinnati Reds: Starting Pitching

The Cincinnati Reds supplied more than enough offense in 2011 in an effort to defend their 2010 AL Central title, however starting pitching was seriously lacking, leading the Reds to a disappointing third-place finish.

While Johnny Cueto has stepped up to assume the No. 1 role on the staff, the rest of the Reds starters are more back-end types, and GM Walt Jocketty would love to add a quality No. 2 starter without breaking the bank.

Potential Candidates: James Shields, Jair Jurrjens

Cleveland Indians: Center Field

One of the obvious issues for the Cleveland Indians heading into the offseason has already been dealt with, with their acquisition of Derek Lowe from the Atlanta Braves to help shore up the pitching staff. Now, the Indians have another major hole to plug—center field.

It’s unlikely that the Indians will make any offers to available free agents, since none of them (Coco Crisp, Cody Ross, Rick Ankiel) would bring back the type of production provided by the departing Grady Sizemore. In fact, recent rumors suggest that the Indians and Sizemore could be close to coming to an agreement on a contract.

If the Indians and Sizemore are unable to come to an agreement, GM Chris Antonetti will likely be making inquiries with other teams regarding possible options in center.

Potential Candidates: Angel Pagan, Andres Torres

Colorado Rockies: Second Base, Third Base

With incumbent second baseman Mark Ellis agreeing to a contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Colorado Rockies will be looking to replace him, presumably with someone younger and with more upside offensively. The free-agent market does not feature anyone who will blow the Rockies away, so trade options are much more likely in order to find the man they want.

In addition, Ty Wigginton has not been the answer at third for Colorado, either. Wiggington hit just .242 with 15 HR and 47 RBI, and at 34 years of age, he clearly is not an option long-term, either. In fact, the Rockies had no issues at all in dealing Wigginton off to the Philadelphia Phillies, so GM Dan O'Dowd will be on the lookout for help at the hot corner.

The Rockies will be looking to upgrade starting pitching as well, however they will likely use available funds to pursue pitching on the free-agent market and inquire with other teams regarding their vacancies at second and third.

Potential Candidates: Martin Prado, Kevin Youkilis

Detroit Tigers: Second Base

The Detroit Tigers essentially played the entire 2011 season without an everyday second baseman, relying on the combination of Ryan Raburn, Carlos Guillen and Ramon Santiago, with none of them logging more than 62 games and none of them providing consistent offense.

GM Dave Dombrowski has some money to spend this offseason, but with the relatively weak lineup of players available in free agency, he will likely be looking for trade partners.

Potential Candidates: Martin Prado, Chris Getz

Houston Astros: Designated Hitter

While the Houston Astros won’t be moving to the AL West until 2013, they will at some point have to start looking for an extra bat in their lineup, and that search could start this winter. It’s highly unlikely that new owner Jim Crane will want to pursue free agents, considering an edict to try to cut payroll, however trade scenarios that would provide fairly inexpensive options will be pursued.

Potential Candidates: None, as there is much more talk of players leaving Houston than there is of players arriving there.

Kansas City Royals: None

The Kansas City Royals essentially took care of two needs with the trade of Melky Cabrera to the San Francisco Giants. They got back a pitcher in Jonathan Sanchez, who will bolster the starting rotation, and they found a spot in their lineup for speedy prospect Lorenzo Cain, who will replace Cabrera in the lineup for the Royals.

Beyond that deal, it’s doubtful the Royals will be a player on the trade market. They are working on re-signing pitcher Bruce Chen, and along with Cain, they have a great nucleus of players that will continue to develop at the major-league level (Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas, Salvador Perez).

Potential Candidates: None

Los Angeles Angels: Starting Pitching

The front of the starting rotation for the Los Angeles Angels is one of the strongest in baseball, with Jered Weaver, Dan Haren and Ervin Santana locked up for the next two seasons. However, it’s the back of the rotation that is a bit more muddied.

While Tyler Chatwood and Garrett Richards will compete for the No. 5 spot in the rotation, Jerome Williams doesn’t exactly exude confidence among Angels fans in the No. 4 spot.

Potential Candidates: None right now, as the Angels invite free-agent pitcher C.J. Wilson to town on Monday, and are said to be mildly interested in Hiroki Kuroda as well. GM Jerry DiPoto will be limited on the trade front, with no real top-tier prospects to dangle and way too many bloated contracts on the current roster.

Los Angeles Dodgers: Pitching

The Los Angeles Dodgers have taken care of two needs already—catcher and second base. While neither of the acquisitions made to fill those spots—Mark Ellis and Matt Treanor—are offensive juggernauts, they will shore the Dodgers’ middle defense up considerably.

The Dodgers at this point most likely won’t be major players in free agency, especially with ownership as yet to be undecided. They will likely try to shore up the starting rotation, however.

Potential Candidates: There have been no names linked to the Dodgers at this point, however the winter meetings are coming up shortly, and GM Ned Colletti is likely already doing some prep work for those meetings, where many transactions are usually finalized.

Miami Marlins: Third Base

The Miami Marlins have already been one of the most active teams in free agency, even though they haven’t technically made any transactions as of yet. However, they’re sure talking up a good game, courting the likes of Albert Pujols, Mark Buehrle and Jose Reyes.

The Marlins would love to upgrade at third base as well, especially if they don’t land Reyes, which means that Hanley Ramirez wouldn’t be moving to the hot corner. Matt Dominguez is still highly regarded by the Marlins, however they will be looking to make a splash in 2012, and Dominguez will likely not be the guy they make a splash with.

Potential Candidates: David Wright

Milwaukee Brewers: Shortstop

The Milwaukee Brewers declined the 2012 option on shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt’s contract, although they are at least entertaining the thought of bringing him back at a reduced salary. The Brewers will kick the tires on both Jose Reyes and Jimmy Rollins, and could take a look at Rafael Furcal as well.

GM Doug Melvin could also go the trade route, and there are some interesting names out there that would represent an upgrade over Betancourt.

Potential Candidates: Jed Lowrie, Brandon Crawford, Ian Desmond

Minnesota Twins: Outfield

In recent days, Minnesota Twins GM Terry Ryan has paid lip service regarding pending free agent Michael Cuddyer, saying that he has reached out to the Twins slugger—however, he also commented that Trevor Plouffe would likely see time in the outfield in 2012, almost lending credence to Ryan not retaining Cuddyer or Jason Kubel.

The Twins have Denard Span and Ben Revere ready to roam the outfield in 2012, however after losing Delmon Young last year, and now possibly Cuddyer and Kubel, the Twins will be light in outfield depth.

Potential Candidates: None thus far that have been rumored.

New York Mets: Shortstop

It almost appears to be a foregone conclusion that Jose Reyes is headed out of town, leaving a major void to fill for the New York Mets at the shortstop position. Of course, they’ll have an even bigger void if David Wright is dealt as well, but the Mets will definitely need to shop for a suitable shortstop.

With few options in the free-agent market and the Mets’ current financial constraints, GM Sandy Alderson will have to get creative this offseason, and will no doubt be looking for suitable trade partners.

Potential Candidates: Jason Bartlett. Bartlett is coming off a career-worst year in San Diego, and they are looking to deal him. Bartlett’s numbers could very well have been skewed because of Petco Park—he is a career .274 hitter who is also capable of stealing 20-25 bases per year. At $5.5 million for 2012, he would be a fairly inexpensive option for Alderson and the Mets.

New York Yankees: Starting Pitching

New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman is clearly looking to bring in a quality pitcher to back up both CC Sabathia and Ivan Nova, and if he is unable to sign the likes of Mark Buehrle, C.J. Wilson and Roy Oswalt, Cashman will be scouring the trade market.

Cashman’s biggest issue will be the asking price for an elite pitcher. Teams will most likely be asking for a combination of prospects such as Dellin Betances, Manny Banuelos, Jesus Montero, Austin Romine and/or Gary Sanchez.

Potential Candidates: Jair Jurrjens, John Danks, Gio Gonzalez

Oakland Athletics: Outfield Help

The Oakland Athletics were 12th in the American League in runs scored in 2011, and their biggest contributor, Josh Willingham, is a free agent and will no doubt attract nice offers from other teams, making it difficult for GM Billy Beane to bring Willingham back.

Coco Crisp and David DeJesus are also free agents, so Beane will definitely be looking to restock his outfield for 2012. With stadium and relocation issues hounding the A’s, they are very limited with respect to financial flexibility, so Beane will no doubt be looking for help via the trade market.

Potential Candidates: Angel Pagan, B.J. Upton, Ryan Spilborghs

Philadelphia Phillies: Left Field

The Philadelphia Phillies will be out from under the contract of left fielder Raul Ibanez, and while they have other concerns, finding a productive outfielder will be an issue that GM Ruben Amaro Jr. will be addressing this offseason.

While reports have the Phillies highly coveting Michael Cuddyer, Amaro could also look to fill the void via the trade market. Dollars will be spent in free agency on veteran bullpen help and resolving their shortstop situation, so Amaro will definitely be busy talking with other teams about outfield help.

Potential Candidates: No specific names have been mentioned, as the Phillies are looking at Cuddyer and others on the free-agent market. In addition, the trade that brought Ty Wigginton to the Phillies from Colorado gives them added flexibility, as Wigginton can play both corner outfield positions as well.

Pittsburgh Pirates: Starting Pitching

The Pittsburgh Pirates recently took care of one major offseason need, signing shortstop Clint Barmes to a two-year contract, solidifying their middle infield.

Now, GM Neal Huntington will see if he can fortify his starting pitching. With a current rotation featuring Kevin Correia, Charlie Morton, Jeff Karstens and James McDonald, Huntington would love to get a strikeout to round the rotation out.

Potential Candidates: No specific names have been mentioned. Huntington will be hesitant to deal prospects, considering the great job he has done in rebuilding the Pirates’ farm system, so it’s likely any deal for a pitcher would have to be more long term.

San Diego Padres: Closer

The San Diego Padres are currently in limbo, and they are waiting to see what develops with possible trades of Orlando Hudson and Jason Bartlett, and the pending status of closer Heath Bell. GM Josh Byrnes will likely have to wait until Dec. 8, which is the deadline for Bell to accept arbitration.

If Bell walks, Luke Gregorson could be an internal candidate to replace Bell, however he appears more suited to a setup role. Much will depend on the statuses of Hudson, Bartlett and Bell before Byrnes knows what he can do with his team’s payroll and decide on options.

Potential Candidates: Huston Street. Street converted 29 saves last season for the Colorado Rockies before a triceps injury sidelined him and he lost his job to Rafael Betancourt. Street is owed $7.5 million in 2012, and would represent a savings for the Padres, considering Bell will make considerably more than that.

San Francisco Giants: Outfield Help

The San Francisco Giants will absolutely be looking to fortify the outfield this offseason, and have already started with the acquisition of Melky Cabrera via a trade with the Kansas City Royals. Adding Cabrera will certainly help, but the corner outfield positions are also of concern to GM Brian Sabean.

The Giants have been pondering the signing of Carlos Beltran and Grady Sizemore—however, if either options don’t pan out, Sabean will be looking to the trade market for options as well.

Potential Candidates: Chone Figgins

Seattle Mariners: Shortstop

The Seattle Mariners were dead last in the American League in runs scored in 2011, marking the second consecutive season in which they have achieved that dubious honor. GM Jack Zduriencik will be tasked with doing whatever he can to provide more offense, as the Mariners have proven they can prevent runs, but are woefully inept at providing them.

One of the major holes is at shortstop, where Brendan Ryan is essentially punchless. Zduriencik will likely be looking for trading partners, since the free-agent market is thin at that position, and Clint Barmes and Jamey Carroll are already off the market with their recent signings.

Potential Candidates: Jed Lowrie

St. Louis Cardinals: Second Base

Middle infield will be the focus for the St. Louis Cardinals this offseason, however, everything is on hold until the contract status of Albert Pujols is resolved.

If the Cardinals are able to re-sign Pujols, they will continue to have one of the best offenses in the National League. In fact, no one scored more runs than the Cards in 2011. But, GM John Mozeliak will be looking to shore up both the second base and shortstop positions. Daniel Descalso has been projected as the starter for the 2012 season, but Mozeliak may very well look at other options.

Potential Candidates: Brandon Phillips

Tampa Bay Rays: Catcher

The Tampa Bay Rays, despite one of lowest payrolls in baseball, continue to be a surprising force in the American League. Their incredible comeback in the month of September was yet another example of how a team can do so much with so little.

This offseason, the Rays will have to deal with the expiring contracts of DH/outfielder Johnny Damon and first baseman Casey Kotchman, but they also have to deal with disappointing efforts offensively from their catchers. With relatively few options in the free-agent market, GM Andrew Friedman will likely look for trade partners.

Potential Candidates: Chris Iannetta

Texas Rangers: Starting Pitching/Closer

With all of the talk of Texas Rangers left-hander C.J. Wilson and whether or not he will take a free-agent contract elsewhere, the Rangers will obviously be looking to replace Wilson in the rotation, should he leave town. There has been discussion once again about moving Neftali Feliz into the rotation, and considering the Rangers’ success in converting relievers into starters (Wilson, Alexi Ogando), the idea certainly has merit.

If that in fact happens, the Rangers could look to land a closer in order to move Feliz, or look to find an established starter, either on the market or via trade.

Potential Candidates: Huston Street, John Danks, Matt Garza

Toronto Blue Jays: Starting Pitching

The Toronto Blue Jays have essentially wallowed in "decency" over the past seven seasons, finishing with anywhere between 77 and 87 wins during that time. Unfortunately for them, it hasn’t even been close enough to compete in the AL East, let alone the playoffs.

This offseason, GM Alex Anthopoulos will look to bolster his starting pitching and get help at the top of the rotation with Ricky Romero.

While AA will no doubt look at some of the tempting free-agent pitchers on the market, he has shown a pattern of preferring building the team via trades rather than the free-agent market, and that could be the way he chooses once again.

Potential Candidates: Jair Jurrjens, Josh Beckett

Washington Nationals: Outfield Help

The Washington Nationals have a strong corps of young players in place to have the team contending very shortly, however with just one or two really good moves, the Nats could very well contend next season.

GM Mike Rizzo will be looking for a center fielder to add to his lineup that already features Ryan Zimmerman, Michael Morse and Jayson Werth. It’s doubtful that Rizzo would find the bat he wants in the free-agent market at this point, so the trade route may be the avenue he takes.

Potential Candidates: Denard Span, B.J. Upton                

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.