Could the San Francisco Giants actually end up trading Carlos Rodon at the deadline? After a recent slide, both teams by the Bay could be selling top talent.
On The Baseball Insiders podcast Thursday, FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray highlighted a frequently-accepted buyer that could become a surprise seller in the San Francisco Giants. While their plan for now is to add at the deadline, that shopping could be done in the form of young talent and prospect capital.
Let us explain.
When Farhan Zaidi brought in Carlos Rodon this offseason to help replace Kevin Gausman, it was considered by many to be an elite signing. Rodon has delivered on his end of the bargain, pitching to a 2.87 ERA and 1.11 WHIP.
While Rodon will always have injury concerns, he’s one of the best pitchers in the National League when healthy. But he might not fit the Giants timeline.
Would the Giants consider trading Carlos Rodon?
On average, San Francisco remains one of the oldest rosters in the National League. Trading Rodon for prospects and young players would put them in a better position for next season.
And about next season — there’s a good chance Rodon won’t even be in San Francisco then anyway. Rodon signed a potential two-year contract, but his player option is enacted should he pitch 19 more innings of regular-season baseball. Odds are he will do just that, and test his market value yet again this offseason.
And who’s to blame him? Considering his numbers the last two years, Rodon could cash in this offseason. The Giants would be fine with a rental if they were on pace for 108 wins in similar fashion to last year. Instead, they’re just two games over the .500 mark.
A Rodon trade remains farfetched. But if the Giants keep losing, I may circle back to this column as a giant “I told you so”.