MLB London Series: 3 Cardinals and 2 Cubs who can up their trade stock overseas
By Kevin Henry
Chicago Cubs potential trade candidate: Marcus Stroman
In a strange twist on Sunday night, another potential trade candidate will be on the mound opposite of Flaherty in Cubs right-hander Marcus Stroman. Also due to be a free agent at the end of the season, Stroman has been very vocal about he and the Cubs not working on an extension, causing many to point to the upcoming MLB trade deadline as a departure for Stroman from the Windy City.
Stroman has been impressive this season for the Cubs, sporting an NL-leading 2.28 ERA and 1.024 WHIP. His 98.2 innings pitched leads the NL as well, and his 196 ERA+ is the best in baseball. These are just some of the reasons why Stroman would likely be a highly desired trade acquisition … if the Cubs do indeed choose to move him.
So how can Stroman boost his value in London? Taking the mound for the world to see, Stroman can remind people he has the internal fortitude to perform well when the lights are the brightest. Stroman hasn’t pitched in the postseason since a two-year run in Toronto from 2015-16, so there may be some out there who want to see what he can do on a special stage. London certainly gives that opportunity.