MLB rumors: 3 contenders that make the most sense for Martin Perez
By Drew Koch
Which 3 contenders should have their eye on Texas Rangers left-handed pitcher Martin Perez at the trade deadline?
Texas Rangers starter Martin Perez is undoubtedly a very popular name among MLB front office executives at the moment. As the summer heats up and the MLB rumors intensify, the left-hander, having just won AL Pitcher of the Month honors in May, will be attractive to several contending teams looking to make a run at the postseason.
Texas’ spending spree this past offseason has not yielded the type of results that team president Jon Daniels and GM Chris Young had hoped for. The Rangers went all-in by signing Marcus Semien and Corey Seager to massive contracts. The team also added starting pitcher Jon Gray.
But it’s been Martin Perez (2.6) who is currently leading the Texas Rangers in bWAR. Among AL starting pitchers, Perez ranks fifth in ERA and has only allowed two home runs this season.
With the Rangers trailing the AL West Division-leading Houston Astros by 8.5 games, it’s beginning to look more and more like Texas will be sellers at the MLB trade deadline. Which contenders are most likely to be interested making a deal for Perez?
MLB rumors: Red Sox could trade for Martin Perez
The Boston Red Sox looked to be dead in the water just a few weeks ago. Boston was three games under .500 at the start of June and the Red Sox looked to be more like seller than buyers.
But a recent surge has seen Boston win eight of their last 10 games and the Red Sox currently occupy the final spot in the chase for the Wild Card in the American League.
If there’s one major area where the Red Sox need help, it’s the starting rotation. Chris Sale is still out of commission and Nathan Eovaldi is on the IL as well. Pérez could slot in nicely between Nick Pivetta and Michael Wacha. The Boston Red Sox should definitely be in the mix for the Texas Rangers’ lefty.