5 moves the Giants should make at the MLB trade deadline

The San Fransisco Giants are just a half game back in the National League West. Here are five moves they should consider before the MLB trade deadline.

Out of all the buyers at the MLB trade deadline, the San Fransisco Giants could be the team in the greatest need to make a trade for the final stretch of the regular season.

The Giants are in the middle of a heated race for the National League West with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and both teams are hoping to make one final move to solidify their status as a legitimate playoff contender. The Dodgers currently hold the division lead by just half a game, and the playoff push can be expected to feature plenty of changes at the top of the standings.

San Fransisco has one of the most complete starting lineups in baseball, but they also have several areas that need improvement. The Giants need to improve their depth significantly, center field is a weak spot in the lineup and starting pitching has been a complete disappointment outside of Madison Bumgarner and rookie sensation Chris Heston.

Manager Bruce Bochy is confident in the guys he has on the roster right now, but hinted that an upgrade to the pitching staff in particular could be something to watch out for.

"“If something makes sense and makes us better, I know something will get done,” Bochy told the San Fransisco Chronicle. “I think if you look at our club, we’re pretty established. Again, if you see something on the pitching side that might help you, you’ll do it.”"

Pitching will obviously be at the forefront as we head toward the final days before the MLB trade deadline, but improving any weakness will give San Fransisco an edge during a competitive playoff race.

Here is a look at five moves that the Giants should consider.

Next: 5. Acquire James Shields from the Padres