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5 teams who should trade for Andrew McCutchen

By Joshua Sadlock

Sep 13, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen (22) in action against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. The Pittsburgh Pirates won 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen (22) in action against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. The Pittsburgh Pirates won 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 7, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers center fielder Ian Desmond (20) cannot come up with a single hit by Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (not pictured) during the fourth inning of game two of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers center fielder Ian Desmond (20) cannot come up with a single hit by Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (not pictured) during the fourth inning of game two of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Texas Rangers

Rather than pursue a reunion with either Carlos Gomez or Ian Desmond to play center field, the Rangers could elect to make a trade for McCutchen. The Rangers got by with average defense from center field this year, and McCutchen could continue to play the position in Texas. It is a logical fit for the Rangers considering that Desmond and Gomez will both command a contract of similar value.

In terms of minor-league prospects, the Rangers have dipped into their system quite heavily over the past two years in order to acquire Cole Hamels, Jonathan Lucroy, Carlos Beltran, and Jeremy Jeffress. The time may eventually have come for them to give up on slugging prospect Joey Gallo, whose raw power should intrigue the Pirates. Another option to consider is a one-for-one swap of McCutchen and second baseman Rougned Odor. Odor has excellent power for a second baseman, but his approach at the plate is still extremely rough.

Texas is a very viable landing spot for McCutchen to revitalize his career. Leaving the cold April temperatures of the northeast behind for the warm climates of the AL West can only help his body. The Rangers stadium also serves as a launching pad when the weather heats up in the summer.

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