Fansided

10 trades contenders should make prior to MLB Trade Deadline

By Dan Schmelzer

May 15, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies right fielder Carlos Gonzalez (5) celebrates his solo home run in the seventh inning against the New York Mets at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
May 15, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies right fielder Carlos Gonzalez (5) celebrates his solo home run in the seventh inning against the New York Mets at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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James Shields
May 19, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher James Shields (33) pitches during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Baltimore Orioles Trade for San Diego Padres Starting Pitcher James Shields

Along with the Boston Red Sox, the Baltimore Orioles appear to be the class of the American League East this season. While nobody should count out the Yankees, Blue Jays or Tampa Bay Rays, the Orioles and Red Sox have both gotten off to a fast start and do not appear to be going anywhere.

The Orioles have a strong offensive ballclub, and their starting pitching has been solid, but they are going to have to add to their rotation depth if they expect to be serious World Series contenders.

I do not think the Orioles will be looking to add a huge name at the trade deadline, but a strong veteran pitcher like James Shields would certainly make a lot of sense. Shields comes with a heavy price tag, but that will help keep the prospect haul given up for him less expensive.

Shields has been great this year, posting a 3.07 ERA through nine starts. That being said, it is fair to wonder how much he has been helped by his extremely pitching-friendly home stadium. However, Baltimore’s Camden Yards is also more pitcher-friendly than a typical MLB ballpark.

Shields is an extremely experienced pitcher who can bring fantastic veteran depth to the Orioles’ rotation. He may not be as sharp as he used to be, but Big Game James will certainly give his best down the stretch, and would be a great guy to have around for a post-season run.

For more MLB Trade Rumors, check out our MLB Trade Rumors hub page.

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