MLB Rumors: 1 player each NL Central team should trade at the deadline

MLB Rumors: Milwaukee Brewers should trade Adrian Houser

The Brewers are in a bit of a weird spot right now. They’re 9-4 right now, and have the talent necessary to win this division. I’d consider the Cardinals the favorite even with their slow start, but wouldn’t rule the Brewers out.

If they don’t get the division, Milwaukee can still compete for a Wild Card berth. If they’re in contention, it’s hard to see them selling again like they did last year with the Hader trade, but it also can’t be ruled out.

The Brewers have two players, Willy Adames and Corbin Burnes, who feel like they have one foot out the door already. Adames appeared to admit that an extension with the Brewers is unlikely, and Burnes had the whole arbitration debacle. If Milwaukee decides they won’t pay those two players, it’s possible they’re moved if the team isn’t competitive.

For now, let’s just go the safe route and choose Adrian Houser. The right-hander played a big role in the Brewers’ rotation in each of the last four seasons but is on the outside looking in when it comes to a rotation spot in 2023.

The Brewers have their three-headed monster in Burnes, Brandon Woodruff, and Freddy Peralta at the top of their rotation with Eric Lauer and Wade Miley rounding it out. You can even argue that a guy like Aaron Ashby is ahead of Houser on the depth chart.

When Houser returns from the Injured List he’ll be in the bullpen. Another team can use Houser as a starter or at least some sort of swingman.