Tampa Bay Rays working to trade Jeremy Hellickson

Jeremy Hellickson was expected to be placed on the trade block this winter by the Tampa Bay Rays, but it seems as though the team could be drawing close to completing a deal that would send the right-hander to a team in the National League. While he doesn’t speculate on any potential destinations, the NY Post’s Joel Sherman hears that a deal could be completed this week.

Hellickson’s career began on a solid footing, taking home the AL’s Rookie of the Year Award in 2011 after posting a 2.85 ERA and 1.153 WHIP over 189.0 IP. Hellickson made 29 starts, going 13-10, while helping the Rays reach the postseason. The following season he’d finish with a 3.10 ERA and 1.254 WHIP in 177.0 IP, also taking home a Gold Glove.

Things haven’t gone as well since, however.

In 237.2 IP over the past two seasons, Hellickson has a 5.00 ERA and 1.376 WHIP. His 7.2 K/9 and 2.7 BB/9 are both improvements over his career numbers, but he’s generally struggled to produce on the mound. This past season he didn’t pitch for the Rays until July after undergoing surgery last January to remove loose bodies from his elbow.

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Recent history aside, Hellickson won’t turn 28 until April and should be entering the prime years of his career. He’ll be under team control for the next three seasons and is projected to earn close to $3.9 million in 2015 through arbitration. If he can remain healthy, he could prove to be an under the radar pickup in the right situation.

Some initial speculation has mentioned the Arizona Diamondbacks as a potential option, given their desire to add options to the pitching staff and their interest in avoiding the higher-cost pieces on the open market. The Chicago Cubs have seen success revitalizing the careers of young pitchers in recent years and are expected to be aggressive in upgrading their rotation. The Atlanta Braves could also be an option, as the team looks to replace Aaron Harang and Ervin Santana‘s innings, but they may prefer to go with someone without the injury concerns.