MLB Trade Deadline: Pitchers to Watch & Underrated Relievers

Potential Trade Deadline Pitchers

• 📌 Noah Syndergaard is a free agent at the end of the year, and the Angels are expected to contend for a postseason spot, making him a potential trade candidate.
• 🎯 Luis Castillo is discussed as a prime trade target, with his remaining year of team control making him highly valuable, though the Reds' asking price is expected to be high.
• 🚀 Teams like the Dodgers, Twins, and Red Sox are mentioned as potential suitors for Castillo, given their willingness to acquire top talent for a World Series push.
• ⚾ Martin Perez is a free agent on a team (Texas Rangers) currently in playoff contention, creating a decision point for the Rangers on whether to trade him or try to re-sign him.
• 🌟 Frankie Montas is considered a definite trade candidate, as the A's are in a rebuilding phase and looking to acquire prospects rather than retain veterans.
• 💡 Jose Quintana is highlighted as a pitcher who is having a nice season for the Pirates and is very likely to be traded.

Underrated Relievers to Watch

• 🔍 David Bednar (Pirates) is a dominant reliever with a 1.1 WAR, showcasing a nasty four-seam fastball, curveball, and splitter, making him a key player for Pittsburgh.
• 📈 Tyler Kinley (Rockies) has been exceptional in a setup role, boasting a low ERA and high strikeout numbers, primarily with a slider and four-seam fastball.
• 💨 Brock Burke (Rangers) is a tall lefty with impressive numbers, featuring a four-seam fastball, slider, and changeup, and is a valuable asset for Texas.
• 📊 Joe Mantiply (Diamondbacks) has been finding significant success with a low ERA and excellent control, despite not being a high-strikeout pitcher.
• 🌊 Jason Adam (Rays) has been lights out, with his success attributed to a reduced fastball usage and increased off-speed pitches.
• 🚀 Alex Lange (Tigers) has transformed his pitch mix, significantly decreasing fastball usage in favor of his curveball, leading to improved performance.

Reliever Volatility and Value

• ⚠️ The life of a relief pitcher is described as volatile, with quick hooks and high pressure, often leading to criticism even after short outings.
• 💰 Relievers often don't get paid what they deserve, requiring consistent performance over multiple seasons to secure significant contracts.
• 🧠 Teams are increasingly hoarding pitching talent, recognizing its immense value, especially in the postseason, making trades for established relievers less common.