Best Available MLB Players on the 2023 Trade Block: Lance Lynn
The Chicago White Sox have plenty of quality players to trade before the deadline. Lance Lynn may not look ‘quality’ on paper, but the starting pitcher could be an effective piece for a contending team’s rotation.
The Numbers
Stats as of July 21, 2023: 6-8, 6.06 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 133 SO, 108 IP
I know you think I’m crazy for listing a pitcher with a 6.06 ERA as a potential trade chip. Lynn has been a quality pitcher his whole career, and the trade deadline isn’t always about big splashes. He owns a 3.67 career ERA, and it wasn’t long ago when he finished third in the AL Cy Young voting. He’d be a great fourth or fifth starter who can eat innings for a contending team.
Potential Destinations
Once all the big names are off the market, second-tier pitchers like Lynn will gain interest. The Giants’ pitching hasn’t been good, yet there’s a possibility they could squeeze into the playoff race. The team ranks 28th in the majors in innings pitched. Lynn has already racked up over 100 innings so far, and the Giants need durability if they want to make the postseason. The big dimensions of Oracle Park could also help Lynn’s awful 1.99 HR/9.
The Diamondbacks would be a good fit for Lynn as well. The team has a bright future, so they probably won’t want to make huge splashes and tank their farm. Lynn would be the best cheap option available and would provide stability behind Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.
The Rays would also be a great landing spot. The team has been looking into Marcus Stroman, but if that doesn’t work, Lynn could be a nice backup. The Rays have a cheat code when it comes to developing pitching, so perhaps a move to Tampa would do wonders for Lynn.
The Verdict
Although it’s unclear if they’ll sell or buy, the Giants seem like a perfect spot. They desperately need pitching, and Lynn needs a pitcher-friendly park to lower his home run total. He has a club option on his contract this offseason, so the Giants wouldn’t have to give up much farm capital. Assuming the Giants decide to go down the buying route, Lynn would be an excellent pickup.
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