|
Ranking the Best Hitters Still Available at the Trade Deadline
As the trade deadline approaches, the market has begun to separate into two distinct groups. The starting pitching market remains the priority for most contenders, but several impact bats could also change teams over the next two weeks. Some bring middle-of-the-order power, others offer elite on-base ability or postseason experience, and all could significantly upgrade a playoff contender's lineup. Here's a look at the top hitters still believed to be available.
1. Yandy Díaz, Tampa Bay, 1B/DH
If a contender is looking for the safest offensive upgrade on the market, it's difficult to top Yandy Díaz. Few hitters control the strike zone better. Díaz consistently posts high on-base percentages, rarely chases pitches outside the zone and makes hard contact to all fields. While he isn't a prototypical 40-home run slugger, he lengthens any lineup and immediately improves an offense's ability to manufacture quality at-bats. But Tampa Bay does not need to trade him, which means the asking price will be high.
Best fit: Teams needing a high on-base hitter near the top of the lineup.
2. Randy Arozarena, Seattle, OF
Few available hitters possess Arozarena's combination of power, speed and postseason pedigree. He has repeatedly shown the ability to elevate his game in October and remains one of baseball's most dynamic all-around outfielders. His ability to hit for power, steal bases and play quality defense makes him attractive even if his batting average fluctuates.
Best fit: Contenders seeking an impact everyday outfielder.
3. Marcell Ozuna, Seattle, DH
Ozuna remains one of the game's premier run producers. Although he is almost exclusively a designated hitter at this stage of his career, his right-handed power continues to play in the middle of any lineup. For American League clubs looking for another bat without sacrificing defense elsewhere, Ozuna represents an ideal rental.
Best fit: Teams searching for middle-of-the-order power.
4. Michael Conforto, OF
Conforto isn't the impact player he was earlier in his career, but he still offers value. The veteran left-handed hitter brings postseason experience, quality plate discipline and the ability to handle both corner outfield spots. He profiles more as a complementary addition than a franchise-changing acquisition, but contenders often need exactly that type of player in August and September.
Best fit: Clubs seeking left-handed depth and veteran experience.
What About the Angels?
General manager Andy Cardinal has already reshaped the roster by acquiring Brayan Bello, Dylan Lee and Mason Montgomery, while Jhonkensey Noel's remarkable start has reduced the urgency to add another middle-of-the-order bat. Still, another position player can't be ruled out. If the Angels decide they need one more offensive piece for the stretch run, Díaz's on-base ability would fit beautifully atop a lineup featuring Chandler Simpson, Zach Neto and Austin Wells. Arozarena would provide another dynamic outfielder with postseason experience, while Ozuna would offer pure power if the club wants to strengthen the designated hitter spot.
With two weeks remaining until the deadline, pitching continues to dominate most trade discussions. But as contenders look for every possible edge, don't be surprised if one of these hitters becomes the next major domino to fall.
|