Detroit Tigers: Trade Options for Nick Castellanos
Oakland A’s
Billy Beane is always looking for value, and Castellanos just might be the answer. Outside of Roman Laureano’s breakout season, the A’s outfield hasn’t been able to produce much at the plate.
Detroit Tigers outfielder Nick Castellanos would be an obvious offensive upgrade over Chad Pinder and isn’t that much worse in the field than Stephen Piscotty (who is worth 1 dRS). He wouldn’t cost that much and would be a prime candidate for an extension with the A’s if he continues to play as well as he has in the past.
On the other hand, Beane has hinted that he’s content with his current lineup and may gear more towards pitching as the deadline approaches, but ya know… even best-laid plans, right?
The Atlanta Braves
With a glut of options currently in their outfield, and a pretty strong bench to compliment, the Braves don’t seem like an obvious fit for a bat-first outfielder, especially with fan-favorite Nick Markakis currently occupying the starting role, and gold glover Ender Inciarte losing playing time to newcomer Austin Riley.
That being said, with the Braves looking to be buyers at the deadline, it’s not unthinkable that someone like Inciarte could be on the move, and Riley’s recent struggles warrant another stint at AAA, thus opening a space for a right-handed bat to fit in the lineup.
The Braves have been linked to Castellanos as recently as Friday, so there’s obvious interest, but most likely an “if this piece moves, then this deal happens” type of scenario.