MLB Power Rankings: Best trade chip on every below .500 team’s roster
By Tim Boyle
2) MLB Power Rankings: Chicago White Sox, Tim Anderson
There are a couple of really good trade candidates on the Chicago White Sox which is ironic because the team is so bad. Tim Anderson is the best position player in this week’s MLB Power Rankings. Even if his year hasn’t gone so smoothly, a change of scenery could make a huge difference for the White Sox star.
The most obvious fit for Anderson would be to land with the Los Angeles Dodgers with a big hole at shortstop. A little more of a reach, what about the New York Yankees if Anthony Volpe continues to struggle? Anderson has a club option for next year which is actually a great benefit for any time that might acquire him. It’s appealing. Consider it a parachute in case it’s an utter disaster.
1) MLB Power Rankings: Cleveland Guardians, Shane Bieber
Shane Bieber has always felt like he was meant to get traded by the Cleveland Guardians. It’s just what they do. A freshly-turned 28 and with a year of control beyond this season, Bieber is the kind of pitcher the Guardians should consider unloading now and reaping the rewards as long as clubs are still willing to pay the price.
This year hasn’t gone perfectly for Bieber. He’s giving up a lot of hits and not striking out many batters. Deeper metrics will surely prove he’s a little bit off this year. It’s one of the reasons why the Guardians are sitting below .500 in a winnable division. Bieber is still worth scouting for any team who feels they could use another ace. He may not be quite there this season. Put him on a contender and watch him soar.