The parity across the MLB this season has been historically impressive, with arguably 24 teams in position as potential buyers in mid-June.
As we steadily approach the All-Star break next month, we see a host of established veterans riding out the conclusion of their contract on soon-to-be, or constantly, rebuilding franchises.
Keep on eye on the following names and realistic scenarios as playoff contenders bulk up for the dog days of summer:
Jimmy Rollins to the Tigers
The Phillies will not be contending this season, nor will they be contending the next three seasons after funneling all resources toward their now-concluded championship run.
Despite considerable drop-offs since 2010 for the aging 15-year veteran, Jimmy Rollins remains a top trade target.
“If they blow everything up, then of course,” Rollins told ESPN.com last weekend regarding the rebuilding phase awaiting the organization in the coming years. This stance carries enormous weight because he holds power with 10-and-5 rights as a veteran player but also as an influential voice inside their clubhouse.
Unless the Tigers believe inexperienced 22-year-old Eugenio Suarez can hold serve at shortstop, Rollins’ $5-6 million price tag (depending upon his trade date) for the remainder of 2014 is a feasible hit for a potential playoff run.
Jonathan Papelbon to the Orioles
Like Rollins, Papelbon appears headed to a contender with a 2-plus month lease. There have been whispers the Cardinals may attempt to acquire the Philly righthander but Pat Neshek and his 0.95 ERA would likely get a chance at closer before outside help is sought. Detroit has also been mentioned as a potential landing spot if Joe Nathan cannot get it together.
The Orioles reportedly inquired about dealing for Papelbon around winter meetings last offseason but no deal was struck.
This is exclusively dependent on Baltimore’s confidence in first time closer Zach Britton this season, a former starter who is dominating in place of Tommy Hunter.
The leash is likely short on Britton and Papelbon’s 1.37 ERA combined with heavy postseason experience could sway Buck Showalter to push for the move.
David Price to the Angels
David Price is not signing a long-term mega deal with the Rays and will not be in Florida come next April, sorry Dicky V.
Every team wants Price, but only a handful are willing to part with their blue-chippers in exchange for a title run and potential deal beyond 2015. Taylor Lindsey, a top infielder in the Angels system will likely be moved alongside a young arm or two.
David Price immediately gives the Angels enough firepower to scare the Athletics in the West.
Emilio Bonifacio to Yankees
The Cubs have no use for Emilio Bonifacio. The numbers don’t jump off the page for the 29-year-old journeyman but he remains an intriguing option among a potentially weak group of multi-position players that are expected to available before the deadline.
The Yanks’ speedy trio of Ellsbury, Gardner and Ichiro continue to produce but will need a day off come July, August and September. Regardless of Carlos Beltran’s and Mark Teixera’s health and Girardi’s willingness to force a permanent DH role on either, Bonifacio would bring extreme flexibility and an occasional pinch runner.
This is not the flashy pickup most New York fans expect each July, but he remains a reasonably priced and valuable utility man.
Photo Courtesy: Steven M. Falk/Philly.com, Justin K. Aller/Getty Images, AP, Brian Garfinkel/Getty Images
