MLB Rumors: Dark horse trade options for the Braves, Cardinals and Mets
By Mark Powell
MLB Rumors: Cardinals can trade with a division rival
The St. Louis Cardinals need pitching, and while they should also acquire a big fish like Dylan Cease or perhaps another ace on the market once July comes around, this team needs depth. Rich Hill could provide that.
Trading in the same division is rare, but the Cards and Pirates pulled off a deal just last season for pitcher Jose Quintana. While Pittsburgh is certainly closer to contending this year than last, their window probably won’t open for another season or two. Hill, a veteran rental, was acquired for this very reason — to be sent packing at the trade deadline for a prospect or two.
Sure, Hill has done an admirable job in the Steel City, and the Bucs are a few games over .500, surprising us all. Yet, despite a 20-8 start, Pittsburgh has fallen back down to earth in a big way. Should this trend continue, the Pirates will be clear sellers come late July.
St. Louis, meanwhile, has flipped the script as well. A disastrous start had some pundits wondering if the Cardinals would sell assets far before the trade deadline. Rather, the Cards could instead be in position to make a postseason run if they acquire the right pieces. Pitching is definitely their most vital needed upgrade. Hill, with his 3.80 ERA and 1.352 WHIP, can offer that to a veteran-laden group.