MLB Rumors: San Francisco Giants interested in Asdrubal Cabrera, Mike Aviles
By Hayden Kane
The San Francisco Giants could use some help in their infield. Yes, Marco Scutaro is finally back in the lineup and Brandon Crawford has shown some signs of promise, but as far as contending with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West, they could still use an upgrade in that area.
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As they cast a wide net for that kind of infield help, they are reportedly keeping an eye on the Cleveland Indians and whether or not they decide to be buyers, sellers, or none of the above with the deadline approaching.
According to Jon Morosi, the Giants will be first in line to talk to them about potential trades for a couple infielders: shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera and Mike Aviles.
As I just said on @MLBONFOX pregame, Giants considering Asdrubal Cabrera and Mike Aviles as trade options -- *if* the Indians sell.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 19, 2014
With the relative weakness of the American League Central, even with the Tigers at the top of the division, and the glut of teams in the Wild Card race, the Indians might find themselves reluctant to deal any key players.
As far as production goes, Cabrera is batting .250/.310/.399 this season with nine home runs and 38 runs driven in. If there was any incentive to deal him it would stem, at least in part, from the fact that his contract is up at season’s end. As for Aviles, he is batting .269/.287/.358 so far.
Modest, is the word I would use to describe the upgrades available with these guys. But upgrades they would be, and every bit matters for the Giants as they try to keep up with the Dodgers.