Los Angeles Angels third baseman Yunel Escobar is reportedly likely to be traded prior to the August 1 deadline.
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Giants, Mets Have Shown Interest in Trading for Escobar
Sunday, June 26
Pedro Moura of the Los Angeles Times reported the buzz on Escobar on Sunday. ESPN.com’s Jerry Crasnick had also reported Friday that the Giants were interested in Escobar and that Los Angeles was “listening” to offers for him.
Escobar has had a strong 2016 campaign thus far with a slash line of .310/.359/.409, but the Angels have struggled as a team, losing six straight contests of late to drop to 31-44.
In the midst of a disappointing season, there is logic to Los Angeles exploring the trade market for Escobar. The 33-year-old has an option on his contract for next season, which includes a $1 million buyout instead of a prospective $7 million salary for 2017, per Spotrac.
With a wealth of experience playing shortstop as well, Escobar has versatility as a defender, which should help L.A.’s cause to trade him.
Selling high on a more seasoned player like Escobar would be a savvy move for the Angels as they try to retool their roster before Mike Trout’s true prime hits.
A contender may be willing to give up a good prospect or two for a player of Escobar’s caliber. L.A. would do well to land some pitching help, considering this year’s club ranked 21st in team ERA and tied for 22nd in quality starts entering Sunday’s games.
It makes sense the Mets are among the teams interested in Escobar. New York star David Wright recently had surgery on a herniated disk in his neck and could be done for the year. San Francisco is dealing with an injury to Matt Duffy, who is on the disabled list due to a strained Achilles.
Since Escobar would be an upgrade for both the Mets and Giants, the trade rumors seem to hold water, and the possibility he’s moved to one of those clubs seems quite realistic.
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