As the MLB trade deadline draws nearer, teams are particularly eyeing on a number of pitchers to improve their rotation. Some of the notable names include Jeff Samardzija, James Shields and Jim Johnson.
There is a large possibility that James Shields of the Kansas City Royals may be transferred to the Toronto Blue Jays. The Blue Jays are aiming for a good starting pitcher to get more wins in the short term. The pitcher has a 3.68 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with a 6-3 record in the current season. Shields was bound to earn $13.5 million for the 2014 MLB season and will enter free agency in 2015. According to the Blue Jays, despite their strong record of 37-24, they plan to boost their starting rotation through Shields. Aside from Shields, Toronto also seemed to be interested in Jason Hammel of the Cubs, Justin Masterson of Cleveland and Francisco Liriano of Pittsburgh.
In a report by Sports Illustrated, Jeff Samardzija of the Chicago Cubs may be bound for the Baltimore Orioles as the two teams try to sort out a deal. The Orioles also intend to add a good pitcher to their rotation. Samardzija has a 2.54 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP. He has 67 strikeouts in 78 innings pitched. The Orioles has a current record of 30-27 and intends to add more wins with the aid of Chicago's ace. The Orioles may offer young pitchers like Kevin Gausman, Eduardo Rodriguez or Dylan Bundy in return.
Jim Johnson of the Oakland Athletics was almost traded to the Marlins. Oakland said that they are willing to cover the remainder of Johnson's salary if he is transferred. Johnson is no longer the same and only posted a 6.55 ERA and allowed 43 baserunners, writes Bleacher Report. He does not play as well at home compared on the road.
The possible trades for the teams may change the records of each team, particularly the top-running Blue Jays.