MLB Power Rankings: 10 best trade candidates this offseason
By Tim Boyle
4. MLB Power Rankings: Brewers trade candidate Brandon Woodruff
This offseason could be a big one for the Milwaukee Brewers. That doesn’t necessarily mean good news for loyal fans. David Stearns stepping down signals a transition whether we like it or not. One of the moves they could make is trading Brandon Woodruff.
Woodruff’s contract is beginning to exceed what the Brewers will typically spend. With many other starting pitcher options including a need to extend Corbin Burnes, Woodruff may end up as an odd man out. Milwaukee can drastically improve another part of their roster in a trade involving this two-time All-Star.
Any team that would seek to add Woodruff would need to be in “win-now” mode. In regards to what the Brewers should look to get back, that can vary. Do they upgrade now or for the future? Trading Woodruff this offseason might set them back slightly. However, a good return could set them up well in 2024.
3. MLB Power Rankings: Pirates trade candidate Bryan Reynolds
Bryan Reynolds has been a trade candidate from the moment he started to play well. The Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder is on a low-budget team with no long-term contract. As a player at a premium position, there are going to be dozens of suitors this offseason.
The Pirates might surprise us with an extension for Reynolds. The 27-year-old has certainly earned it. Through just over 2,000 big league plate appearances, he’s a .281/.361/.481 hitter with an average of 24 home runs and 79 RBI per 162 games.
A team like the New York Mets could be aggressive in targeting Reynolds via trade if Brandon Nimmo walks. Let’s also include the Los Angeles Dodgers in the mix. Probably ready to move on from Cody Bellinger as their starting center fielder, they would upgrade the position in a massive way with Reynolds.