Trade Deadline Preview: Chicago Cubs
Jun 1, 2014; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Jeff Samardzija (29) pauses before making a pitch in the third inning during the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Three Pieces on the Trading Block
1. Jeff Samardzija
Perhaps the biggest name on the trade market this season, Samardzija can complete a playoff team’s rotation, and add a large amount of help to a contender, especially one that is light on pitching. Samardzija had reportedly turned down a five year/$85 million extension earlier this year with the Cubs, making it clear that the 29 year old right hander wants out of Chicago. Despite a 2-7 record, Samardzija holds a 2.83 ERA with 103 K’s in 108 IP. His 2.0 WAR and 3.07 FIP also look to serve of value for any interested teams. Teams that may be interested in Samardzija include the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles, and Seattle Mariners.
2. Jason Hammel
When Theo and Co. signed the 31 year old right hander to a one year/$6 million contract this offseason, it became clear that the intentions were to hope he performs well, and trade him around the deadline. This action looks to be coming to fruition thus far, as Hammel has been one of the best starting pitchers in the National League this season. Through 16 starts, Hammel has posted a 7-5 record, a 2.98 ERA, and a stunning 1.013 WHIP. To this point, Hammel has amassed the best season in his career, and can prove to be a very effective, yet lower cost prize when compared to Jeff Samardzija. Teams such as the New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, and Toronto Blue Jays may be interested in Jason Hammel.
His numbers this year are far from flattering. Many were surprised that the 30 year old outfielder wasn’t traded last year, where his numbers were much better and he could have provided more use offensively to a contender. Despite a .200 batting average with 3 HR and 27 RBI, it is not Schierholtz’s bat that will be looked at, yet his experience and outstanding defensive play. Schierholtz was a member of the 2010 San Francisco Giants that won the World Series, and was mostly used as a late game defensive replacement, a function which could serve both Schierholtz and a buyer very well. Teams that may be interested include the Seattle Mariners, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, and Boston Red Sox.