MLB rumors: Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, Baltimore Orioles

Let’s take a look at some of the latest MLB rumors, including notes on the Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners and Baltimore Orioles.

MLB rumors: Do Chicago Cubs have the top starting pitcher trade chip?

According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, general managers around the league believe that Marcus Stroman will be the most coveted starting pitcher when the MLB trade deadline nears on August 1. Nightengale lists Stroman ahead of eight other starting pitchers who are expected to be dealt at the trade deadline, including (in order of listing by Nightengale)  Lucas Giolito, (Chicago White Sox), James Paxton (Boston Red Sox), Jordan Montgomery (St. Louis Cardinals), Jack Flaherty (St. Louis Cardinals), Lance Lynn (Chicago White Sox), Eduardo Rodriguez (Detroit Tigers), Michael Lorenzen (Detroit Tigers), and Paul Blackburn (Oakland Athletics).

Stroman’s name has been a part of rumors for quite some time now, and the Cubs should be able to land a nice return if they do indeed decide to deal him.

Seattle Mariners rumors: Are these their trade deadline wants?

Also according to Nightengale, the Mariners, who are 7-3 in their last 10 games and making a move in the AL West, “are telling teams they are seeking another bat, and a starter.” Nightengale believes the trade market for those specific players will be heavy, adding those are likely the same desires of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Arizona Diamondbacks and Cincinnati Reds, who are all expected to be on the hunt for starting pitching.

Baltimore Orioles rumors: Listening to offers?

Could the Orioles be both a buyer and a seller at the MLB trade deadline? Nightengale believes it is possible, writing, “The Baltimore Orioles say they will listen to offers for their loaded infield surplus in exchange for pitching help.” In a crowded AL East, will those moves be enough to secure Baltimore a spot in the postseason?