Comments from around and about the past few days, both localized and national, are beginning to move McCutcheon to the front of the hot stove, and more wood is being added to fan the flames.
Marte was my first choice as a trade chip because that is one of the Pirates greatest needs.
They also have a priority for a back end starter.
And Josh Bell needs to turn up his D if he reamains at 1B.
And three for one and even four for one offers are being tossed around in regards to other clubs.
The stove is getting hot.
While the recent "chat" suggested it would be more sensible to make him a pre-deadline trade, I cannot imagine is value being any hotter than it is now because their GM wants to go into camp with his options in place.
He scored nicely with Kang and Polanco ... and Austin Meadows is next in line for an OF shot.
So, I've refined my trade to offer several options:
Marte, Karns, and Vogelsbach is my top choice.
The Pirates sudied Vogelsbach when he was a "blocked" Cub, and hey can move Josh Bell back to he OF, where the Bucs brought him up.
If that doesn't work, then I reluctantly make it: Tie One On; Marte; and Vogelsbach.
Vogelsbach can be measured as Mike Montgomery.
And even if he won't be DHing for them, and needs work on defense, the fact that he could come back and humble the despised rival, the Cubs, tosses some spice into the stew.
I dunno why I want to see them keep Tank ... maybe it's because I think there might be some be some magic there because he keeps outperforming his expected potential at every turn.
Will the M's put themselves in such a "hostage" position for a 30 year old who might be ready to dash over-the-hill and recent quots from DePoet about them wanting to get "younger".
Me thinks you can bet your sweet patootie they will.
if they can.
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