Pittsburgh Pirates: Potential Trade Partners for Andrew McCutchen
By Jason Reed
Los Angeles Dodgers
Whenever there is a big name on the trade or free agency market, the Los Angeles Dodgers are involved. To many, their outfield may already be set with their young talent along with veteran Andre Ethier. However, if the right pieces are moved, Andrew McCutchen could call left field his home in Los Angeles. Although he is a center fielder, Joc Pederson posts considerably better defensive statistics and may be better suited to remain in center field.
The Dodgers have the pieces to get this deal done as well. The great thing about this deal is the Dodgers wouldn’t have to move the untouchable Julio Urias. The Pirates seem to have a good asking price for McCutchen, but with the pieces the Dodgers have, Urias wouldn’t need to be included. A good deal for both parties would include big league ready Jose De Leon, outfielder Alex Verdugo, and even potentially an established big league talent such as Yasiel Puig or Andrew Toles. Puig has been in trade rumors since June, and a deal for McCutchen may tempt the Dodgers to pull the trigger.
Acquiring McCutchen would give the Dodgers a much-needed replacement bat if they cannot re-sign Justin Turner. McCutchen would likely lead off or bat in the two-spot ahead of shortstop Corey Seager. Having McCutchen in left would shift Trayce Thompson to right field, his natural outfield position. Thomspon, in my opinion, is highly underrated and if it wasn’t for injury could have been in the running for NL Rookie of the Year. Seeing a deal made between Pittsburgh and Los Angeles wouldn’t be a surprise this offseason.