Zack Cozart, Cincinnati Reds
Raise your hand if you predicted back in March that Zack Cozart would win the fan vote to become the NL’s starting shortstop in this year’s All-Star Game. Even Cozart himself likely didn’t see it coming, though he’s certainly deserving. The seven-year veteran owns a robust .316/.394/.547 slash line with nine home runs and 35 RBI, putting him on pace to set new career highs across the board.
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Cozart, who turns 32 next month, also provides sturdy defense at shortstop. He currently sports a 7.6 UZR/150 and has been four defensive runs saved (DRS) above average.
However, the Reds are in no real position to compete in the second half at 39-49 and 11.5 games behind in the Wild Card hunt. As an impending free agent having a career year, Cozart would be a prime trade candidate. Cincinnati could get something useful in return for a player whose value will likely never be higher.
The Reds and Cozart are apparently open to working out an extension, and if that desire is genuine the shortstop may actually stay put. But the rebuilding club will have to at least consider what they could get for Cozart by the end of the month. The Twins could be a possible destination, as shortstop Jorge Polanco is hitting a dismal .224/.273/.323 for them in 70 games.
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