MLB Insider: 3 way-too-early MLB offseason trade candidates

MLB offseason trade candidate: Alek Thomas, Arizona Diamondbacks

In the days leading up to the trade deadline, I wrote that the Arizona Diamondbacks could trade from their outfield surplus to upgrade a different position on the roster.

That ultimately didn’t happen. The offseason, however, could wind up being a different story out in the desert.

Rival executives say that Alek Thomas was indeed part of trade conversations and shopped by the Diamondbacks. No deal was consummated, of course, but Arizona sought a high-end starting pitcher or reliever. While they acquired Paul Seward to lock up the ninth inning, they still need a starter.

Perhaps they could use Thomas, or another outfielder, as part of a package to acquire another frontline starter in the winter. The Diamondbacks quickly inserted themselves into the playoff picture this season, so they will certainly look to build upon that in the offseason. Trading Thomas could be part of that equation.