Theo Epstein has never been shy about making a deal. The former Boston Red Sox GM helped built two World Series versions in Boston and now is in full rebuilding mode in Chicago.
With the team openly not focusing on this season and trying to revamp its farm system, it’s very likely a bunch of attractive pieces can be on the move and out of Wrigley.
Scott Feldman and Matt Garza could be this year’s versions of Ryan Dempster and both can attract suitors by the deadline. Carlos Marmol, recently DFA’d by the Cubs may be selected by a team like the Phillies, who just lost Mike Adams for the season and may be looking for a cheap alternative.
The Detroit Tigers are in need of a closer and seem to be one piece away from being legitimate World Series favorites and teams like the: Rays, Red Sox and Braves could be looking for bullpen help to solidify World Series chances.
Finally, Alfonso Soriano is an outfield bat who can be a difference maker and is sure to get at least one decent prospect in return. Soriano is owed $18 million dollars this year and next year, likely taking him out of the bidding in the Bronx, a playoff caliber team most in need of hitting.
However, teams who may have been holding out on Corey Hart (who has been slowed during rehab) or lose out on any of Seattle’s hitters may turn to Epstein to try to swing a deal for Soriano.
Chicago would be wise to pull the trigger on at least a couple of these names as they further try to build a home-grown core and rid themselves of bad contracts.
