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MLB Trade Deadline: 15 biggest names on the market

By Nathaniel Reeves

Apr 6, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54) throws against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54) throws against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 21, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Milwaukee Brewers designated hitter Jonathan Lucroy (20) singles on a ground ball to Oakland Athletics center fielder Coco Crisp (not pictured) in the fourth inning at the Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 21, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Milwaukee Brewers designated hitter Jonathan Lucroy (20) singles on a ground ball to Oakland Athletics center fielder Coco Crisp (not pictured) in the fourth inning at the Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Jonathan Lucroy, C, Milwaukee Brewers 

After Braun, the last major piece for the Brewers to deal at the 2016 trade deadline will be Lucroy. The 30-year-old is having a nice bounce-back season and will be in high demand, as a couple of contenders need help at catcher.

Just two years ago, Lucroy not only had an argument as the best catcher in baseball, but was one of the most valuable players in the Majors period. Lucroy posted a 132 wRC+ in 2014 per FanGraphs, just shy of a career best, and his defense improved enough to help him accumulate 6.1 WAR.

The Brewers appeared to have a franchise centerpiece, but Lucroy really struggled the next season. A toe injury and concussion problems limited Lucroy to just 103 games in 2015, and his 93 wRC+ was his worst mark since 2011.

Given how difficult it can be to recover from a concussion, the Brewers didn’t know what to expect from Lucroy this year, and considered trading him in the offseason before the situation got worse. Fortunately for the team, Lucroy is healthy and has a 123 wRC+ with 2.1 WAR through 278 plate appearances.

Lucroy’s value is way up from a year ago, and the Brewers should get an excellent return to improve their already-strong farm system. The Rangers are likely the best fit among contenders, while the Houston Astros could also make a move if they decide to buy.

Next: 2. Aroldis Chapman, RP, New York Yankees

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