The MLB trade deadline looms on Friday. With just a few days to go, the rumor mill is churning. We’ll round up the hottest rumors here throughout the day. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Nationals’ trade talks involving ace Max Scherzer are “intensifying,” to the point where a deal could be reached before Thursday. Morosi adds that the three top teams in the National League West — the Giants, Dodgers, and Padres — are believed to be involved, along with other clubs.
Scherzer’s situation is more complex than the typical trade candidate’s. He has the ability to block any trade thanks to his 10-5 rights (as in, 10 years of major league service and five consecutive with his current team), and his agent Scott Boras has implied that he may require financial coaxing in order to consent to a deal.
It’s also worth noting that Nationals ownership squashed a Bryce Harper trade several deadlines ago, and it’s at least possible they would stand in the way of moving Scherzer. (Though that scenario seems less likely given the Nationals’ recent poor play.)
Scherzer, an impending free agent, missed his last start because of an injury he experienced during batting practice. In 18 outings this season, he’s accumulated a 2.83 ERA (135 ERA+) and a 5.68 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen has experienced turbulence lately, blowing three saves since the start of the second half. Perhaps predictably, Los Angeles is at least weighing adding to their relief corps. Per MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Dodgers have spoken to the Cubs about several players, including closer Craig Kimbrel.
