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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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May 5, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds right fielder Jay Bruce (32) hits a three-run home run against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds right fielder Jay Bruce (32) hits a three-run home run against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Jay Bruce, OF, Cincinnati Reds

The Reds are already well into a lengthy rebuilding process, and will sell off whatever pieces they have left at the 2016 trade deadline. Unless the team manages to move Joey Votto’s big contract, Bruce will be their most attractive player come August 1.

Between 2010-2013, Bruce produced consistently at a high level, piling up 14.8 WAR per FanGraphs with two All-Star appearances and a pair of 10th place MVP finishes. Bruce struggled with injuries over the next two years, and below-average offense led to him being replacement level for a lengthy stretch.

While Bruce’s defense is still a liability, he’s had a nice bounce-back season at the plate, which is great news for the Reds. Bruce owns a career-best 133 wRC+ through 283 plate appearances, ad has found his power stroke again with 16 home runs.

That kind of production from the corner outfield would represent an upgrade for a few teams, and Bruce should bring back a decent prospect to add to Cincinnati’s recent hauls. Bruce also has a $13 million club option for 2017, which a few high-payroll teams may be willing to exercise if he keeps hitting.

The Blue Jays and Orioles were interested in Bruce over the offseason, while he would also be a good fit in San Francisco. Expect the Reds to also offer up Brandon Phillips and Zack Cozart at the deadline.

Next: 7. Ryan Braun, OF, Milwaukee Brewers

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