MLB trade rumors: 5 pitchers Orioles need

2. Jason Vargas

After rehabbing from Tommy John in 2015 and most of 2016, Jason Vargas is the early leader for the American League’s Comeback Player of the Year. In his first nine starts, the veteran left-hander is 5-3 with a solid 2.30 ERA. He has gotten by on the back of his outstanding changeup, a pitch that hitters are batting .125 against on the season.

Vargas is another one of MLB’s veterans who is getting great results without great velocity this season. His changeup is much more of a swing-and-miss pitch than is typical for that type of pitch. For Vargas, the changeup comes in with backspin that makes it difficult for hitters to square up. They can elevate it, but not drive it.

With the Royals struggling in last place and Vargas in the final year of his four-year deal, he is a safe bet to be traded before the deadline. His offspeed deliveries should play in the AL East, where he can prey on eager sluggers. The Royals will find plenty of trade partners when they shop Vargas. The Orioles cannot afford to chase the bigger names, but they may be able to sneak in and grab this quality starter while the richer teams big for Jose Quintana and Gerrit Cole.