MLB Rumors: Shohei Ohtani trade still viewed as unlikely
As the Los Angeles Angels mull what to do at the trade deadline, rival executives continue to view a trade involving superstar two-way player Shohei Ohtani as unlikely.
That's long been the assumption of rival executives. Angels owner Arte Moreno is hesitant to be the person responsible for signing off on an Ohtani trade and not wanting to be known as the owner who traded arguably the best player in baseball history.
Even then, it's no guarantee that the Angels sell. It's highly possible that the team buys.
They have gotten inquires on many of their major-league players, according to sources, but have not engaged in serious talks. They continue to evaluate other teams' rosters and could be creative in adding to their roster if they do indeed buy, as the team believes most of their issues stemmed from an injury-plagued roster.
MLB Rumors: Players the Dodgers are eyeing at trade deadline
The Los Angeles Dodgers' trade deadline strategy is abundantly clear: add a starting pitcher, bullpen piece and another outfielder.
It's more likely that the Dodgers splurge for a starting pitcher than a reliever — president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has been hesitant to part with key resources for bullpen pieces in the past — and the rotation is a pressing need in Los Angeles.
As for the outfield, among the pieces the Dodgers are monitoring include New York Mets' Mark Canha and Tommy Pham.
Canha, 34, is signed through 2023 with a two-year, $26.5 million contract that includes a 2024 team option. He's had a down season offensively, hitting only .238/.338/.381 with a .719 OPS, six home runs and 28 RBI, though could be a useful veteran outfield piece in Los Angeles.
Pham, meanwhile, has arguably been the Mets' best hitter and will attract widespread interest. He's hitting .271/.355/.472 with nine home runs and 35 RBI and is also capable of playing every outfield position. Among other fits: Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers.
MLB Rumors: Pirates likely to trade Rich Hill
A Rich Hill trade seems increasingly likely for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Hill, 43, has posted a 4.84 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 109.2 innings this season. He has extensive postseason experience and considering his success pitching in the American League East, it would make a team like the Baltimore Orioles — who also need starting pitching — a logical fit.
Another team that could make sense is the Milwaukee Brewers, who are in need of a left-handed arm with Wade Miley on the Injured List. Rival scouts view Hill as a natural fit for American Family Field.