SerpApi.Org
According to MLB insider Jeff Passan, the Baltimore Orioles are entertaining offers for three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman.
While several teams are in the market for catchers, the New York Yankees have been the most aggressive team seeking a catcher ahead of the August 3. deadline. They have also been linked to power-hitting catcher Hunter Goodman, who had a three-home-run performance on July 19.
Passan believes Rutschman has a 30% chance of being traded and wrote “the Orioles aren't exactly looking to trade Rutschman, but they are certainly listening...''
Rutschman was recently (July 19) placed on the 10-day injury list with left wrist inflammation. Manager Craig Albernaz wants to give him ample time to recover as his left wrist is important for receiving pitches and for his swing. This is the third time that Rutschman has landed on the shelf this season.
Adley Rutschman is a possible trade candidate
On the season, Rutschman is batting .251 with eight home runs, 47 RBI and a .764 OPS. If Rutschman officially does become available, several teams would be interested in him for his defensive value.
He sits in the 97th percentile with framing (5) and in the 99th percentile with a Caught Stealing Above Average (CS Above Average) of 5.
The former No. 1 pick will become a free agent after next season and the Orioles already have rookie star catcher Samuel Basallo locked up in a eight-year, $67 million contract, which could increase the chances of them dealing Rutschman if the right trade offer arises.
Rutschman's salary for this season is $7.3 million, which would make him a cost-effective option. While the trade is deemed unlikely, if the Orioles were to trade him, now would be the best time.
In addition to Goodman, Rutschman also joins Ryan Jeffers and Shea Langeliers who are two other noteworthy names who have surfaced in the catcher market.
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