MLB trade rumors: Top 25 trade assets for deadline

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Jun 23, 2017; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer (22) reacts as he asks to change the ball during the second inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Chris Archer

Chris Archer was drafted in the fifth round out of high school in 2006. Before he even reached the big leagues, the right-hander was traded twice. The Cubs were one of the teams that had their hands on the impressive prospect before he ended up in Tampa Bay. Now, the Cubs may have an interest in bringing back the ace.

The Rays are in an interesting position this year as they have a small lead in the second Wild Card. Archer’s name was prominently featured in trade rumors at the deadline last year and over the course of the offseason, but he remained in Tampa Bay. He is signed through 2019 with two team options totaling $20 million that run up to 2021. Even the Rays can afford that.

There is not much reason for the Rays to trade Archer now. He has one of the most team-friendly contracts in baseball. Very few teams have been able to convince their young stars to give up free agency as well as the Rays have. Tampa Bay would have to be absolutely blown away to trade Archer at this point, but if they falter in the weeks leading up to the deadline, they may begin taking calls on his availability.

Trading Archer may be a stretch for the Rays, and they will not give up on a chance to make a playoff run this year with so many of their hitters enjoying career years. Another scenario could have them trading closer Alex Colome or starter Alex Cobb. There is enough surrounding talent on the active roster and at Triple-A to cover for a move like that.

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