MLB Rumors: Grading trade fits for Cardinals, Cubs, Braves

In the latest installment of grading trade fits, FanSided’s MLB Insider Robert Murray talks about potential deals for the Cardinals, Cubs and Braves.

With the MLB trade deadline rapidly approaching, some teams are talking internally to decide what players to target. But most of them are deciding whether or not to stand pat and to determine how aggressive they should be as buyers or sellers.

It’s resulted in the trade market being slow to develop, though it’s possible that some team — the Angels? — jump the market due to a plethora of injuries. Nevertheless, trade speculation has been rampant and will only continue to grow in the coming days and weeks.

Here are three trade fits and determining what the odds are for each player.

MLB trade fits: Philadelphia Phillies — Paul Goldschmidt

Let’s make this clear: I do not expect Paul Goldschmidt to be traded. Heck, I don’t even expect the St. Louis Cardinals to entertain the idea of trading him. He’s too important to the team to move him.

But it’s entirely possible that with the Cardinals being 31-44 and in last place in the National League Central that they listen on their best players, Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado included. No, that does not mean they are shopping either player. But listening in case any team blows them away with an offer doesn’t hurt.

If there was ever a team that could make such an offer, it would be the Philadelphia Phillies. They don’t have a true first baseman right now. Their lead executive, Dave Dombrowski, is as aggressive as anyone in baseball. They have invested a lot into the roster and adding Goldschmidt would give them an even more star-studded offense.

I love the fit. I just think it’s a pipe dream at best.

Grading the fit: 7/10 (But 0.5/10 likelihood)