Contending teams are always on the lookout for closers and late-inning relievers come July, and this year is no different. Typically, teams looking to add a closer at the trade deadline do so by dealing with clubs that are out of playoff contention. However, Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller confirmed that the San Diego Padres trading their closer Robert Suarez, even though they’re currently in the postseason hunt.
Miller acknowledged how unusual such a move would be, noting, “Trading arguably the best closer in baseball during a playoff chase would be highly unconventional.” But he added that Suarez, a 34-year-old All-Star, is almost certain to opt out of the final two years of his contract if the season ended today. Given his performance, he could land a deal similar to Tanner Scott’s four-year, $72 million contract from this past offseason.
If San Diego does decide to move Suarez, the Philadelphia Phillies and Texas Rangers could be strong trade partners. The Phillies have had solid performances from Jose Alvarado, Joe Ross, Matt Strahm, and Tanner Banks, but their acquisition of Jordan Romano hasn’t panned out. Suarez could pair with Alvarado to create a dominant back-end bullpen duo in Philadelphia.
The Rangers also have had success with several relievers—Chris Martin, Robert Garcia, Hoby Milner, and Shawn Armstrong—but closer Luke Jackson has struggled, posting a 6.00 ERA in 15 outings. As Miller pointed out, Texas is almost certain to seek a closer, with Atlanta and possibly Boston also potential suitors if their current options falter.
While Miller didn’t directly mention the Phillies, they made a bold move at last year’s deadline by acquiring Carlos Estevez, and they might be ready to make another aggressive play. If the Padres put Suarez on the market, both Philadelphia and Texas could find themselves in a bidding war.