MLB rumors are a very hot topic as the cold winds of winter arrive, and while every team is trying to keep their best poker face with big name Free Agents like JD Martinez, Giancarlo Stanton, Jake Arrieta, and Eric Hosmer, some of the top players who will officially be on the market at the end of the 2018 campaign are already drawing interest in possible offseason trades.
Ian Kinsler still in demand
While Ian Kinsler is still under contract for another year with the Detroit Tigers, the trade rumors surrounding him are stronger than ever. The veteran second baseman has been linked to the Angels, Dodgers, Cubs, and most recently, the Mets. The 35-year-old has also been rumored to be considering a possible move to third base from time to time from his usual second base position.
Kinsler may be in the twilight of his career, but he definitely still has a lot to offer a team in contention.
McCutchen still on the block?
Andrew McCutchen has been one of the best outfielders in the National League over the past five seasons, yet he is constantly being mentioned in trade rumors.
After a slow start in 2017, McCutchen caught fire in the second half of the season, finishing the season with 28 home runs, 88 RBI's, and a batting average near .300.
So, could the Pirates trade their longtime star? Yes, and it most likely will happen before the 2018 season comes to an end. Unless the Pirates are fighting for a playoff spot and McCutchen is having another all-star season, odds are he will be on the block. After all, McCutchen will more than likely test the market in 2018.
Dozier is a top prize free agent
Brian Dozier is a beast. Seriously, this guy isn't just good, he is great. If Dozier played in a big market like New York, LA, Chicago or Detroit, he would be the talk of the town.
Just the fact that he makes $9 million per season for the numbers he puts up is incredible. Unless Dozier just wants to stay in Minnesota following the 2018 season, he is going to get a huge payday from someone if he chooses.
The second baseman led the Twins with 34 home runs and a .856 OPS in 2017. With the Twins rumored to be all-in on starting pitching in 2018, Dozier could be part of a deal if a top quality pitcher is involved. A ton of teams would love to have Dozier on their roster in 2018, especially one that is in playoff contention.
Last season during spring training, the slugging second baseman was rumored to be drawing interest from the Indians, White Sox, and Yankees.
Here's a crazy thought: How about a Dozier to the Detroit Tigers deal?
If Detroit parts ways with Ian Kinsler, could they have interest in Dozier? He is just 30 and doesn't break the bank in terms of a big contract. After dumping a ton of salary in 2017, a player like Dozier could lift the Tigers instantly. A reason to believe this could possibly happen is the Tigers recent hiring of Ron Gardenhire. Gardenhire and Dozier have a long history together with the Twins, and they got along very well.