MLB trade rumors: One player each team should target

PITTSBURGH, PA - JUNE 27: Andrew McCutchen #22 of the Pittsburgh Pirates catches a ball hit by Wilson Ramos #40 of the Tampa Bay Rays (not pictured) during the sixth inning at PNC Park on June 27, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – JULY 01: Andrew McCutchen #22 of the Pittsburgh Pirates scores on a RBI single in the third inning against the San Francisco Giants at PNC Park on July 1, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

Pittsburgh Pirates: Leody Taveras

When the Pirates were trying to trade Andrew McCutchen to the Nationals over the winter, their main target was five-tool outfielder Victor Robles. Washington elected for Adam Eaton instead, but the Pirates could still be able to land a toolsy outfield prospect when they eventually trade McCutchen at the deadline.

Leody Taveras, the top prospect in the Texas system, is almost on the same level as Robles, but is still behind him when it comes to power. That will come with time. Taveras is one of the most impressive 18-year-old prospects in the minor leagues. He is already showing good feel for recognizing pitches and working the strike zone and has impressive bat speed. Taveras also has plus speed that will make him a stolen-base threat at the MLB level.

The Rangers have a need for an upgrade in their outfield, and McCutchen offers much more consistent contact, something that is sorely needed in a lineup that features Joey Gallo and Mike Napoli. The warm weather of Texas will keep the ball jumping off McCutchen’s bat.

It’s strange to think that McCutchen may not draw a ton of interest on the trade market as he bats close to .400 for the better part of a month. There just are not many contenders with a desperate need to upgrade in center field. The Rangers, though, do have a need and can still get back to the top of the pack in the wild card race.

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