There are several MLB teams whose future looks uncertain and are being considered bubble teams. Do they buy, sell, or maybe neither at the upcoming deadline?
The 2023 MLB trade deadline is August 1 and is fast approaching. There is a lot of buzz, rumors, and action already happening ahead of All-star week. Here is a look at some of those teams on the bubble right now.
Bubble Teams
Seattle Mariners
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Mariners have underperformed in the first half of the season despite high expectations to start. They ended a lengthy playoff drought last season and were hopeful to make a big run this year. They are only a few games out of the wild card race. Therefore, additions of an extra bat or two would help them bolster the lineup to make a run. Seattle may make a move to shore up their already good lineup. Though there is a chance that at the deadline they maybe drop off in the standings and decide to sell. Outfielder Teoscar Hernadez would be a player to watch as he is in his walk year. He could fetch an impressive haul for them.
Cleveland Guardians
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Guardians have a chance to win the AL Central like last year. They are playing well but have struggled at times. If they are out of the playoff race, which is highly unlikely but possible could force them to make a move. Shane Bieber would garner a lot of interest as the starting pitching market is thin. He will be a free agent prior to the 2025 season and has pitched well this year. The Guardians will be an interesting team to watch because there is no clear direction right now.
New York Mets
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Mets are an interesting team who have highly underperformed despite a busy offseason. They assembled a roster to be a World Series contender. It has been a lackluster start for them so far and they are struggling to find footing. Though it’s not a popular idea the Mets could end up being sellers if things don’t get better by then. The team may decide to sell of some their salary which leads the league. Of course, that would mean that are admitting defeat on a roster they committed to. It will be interesting to see what happens.
The trade deadline is always a fun and unpredictable time. These are a few of the bubble teams to watch in the next few weeks. Fans should also keep an eye on NL Central teams as they may factor into some big deals. Tune in for more MLB news and stories.
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