2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Teams Targeting Cubs, White Sox Relievers
By Editorial Staff
Phil Rodgers of the Chicago Tribune is reporting that the White Sox and Cubs are receiving calls regarding the avaibility of several of their relievers. The two big names that have come up in trade talks are closers Sergio Santos and Carlos Marmol. Rodgers sees the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Twins, Reds and Mets as possible fits.
Both of these players may appeal to teams that are hesitant to dish out the costly long-term deals it will require to bring in a free agent closer. Marmol and Santos offer clubs more affordable options. Santos is set to make $7.5 million over the next three seasons while Marmol is under team control for a total of $16.8 million in 2012-13.
In his first year as the White Sox primary closer, Santos compiled 30 saves while finishing the season with an ERA and WHIP of 3.55 and 1.105. The 28-year-old right-hander maintained SO/9 and BB/9 ratios of 13.1 and 4.1 over his 63 1/3 innings of work.
Marmol was not nearly as successful in 2011. The right-hander again struggled with command issues, finishing last season with an ERA of 4.01 and allowing 5.8 BB/9. Though these numbers are less than impressive, Marmol has displayed astronomical strikeout rates throughout his career and when he’s on he’s as tough as anyone to hit against.
Rodgers believes because he is currently signed to such an affordable contract, the White Sox will only surrender Santos in a trade if they are blown away. Marmol may be more available as he is one of the few trade chips the Cubs have.
Beyond Santos, the White Sox have received calls on several of their other relievers. The Sox have a solid supply of right-handed bullpen arms, and Rodgers says Chicago’s general manager Kenny Williams can afford to listen to offers or even actively shop Jesse Crain, Jason Frasor and Matt Thornton.
Rodgers believes Thornton is the most likely of the trio to be moved this winter, and hears that the Yankees, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Cardinals and Brewers have been “tracking Thornton’s availability”.
For more on the White Sox and Cubs, be sure to check out Southside Sox and Cubbies Crib.