The trade deadline is rapidly approaching, bringing with it an endless series of rumors about players who will be on the move to hopefully push a contending team into the postseason.
One of the hottest names potentially available at the deadline could be Milwaukee’s Yovani Gallardo. According to Anthony Witrado of the Sporting News, the Brewers figure to be sellers at the deadline because of their awful start (31-43).
The Brewers also need to add impact talent to a farm system that is lacking it, especially at the upper levels. They were able to get a few key pieces last year when they moved Zack Greinke to the Angels, and Jean Segura looks like a star, but they need a lot more if they hope to contend in the near future.
Teams are always looking for pitching, especially starters, at the deadline. The chance to get a 27-year-old power arm who is locked up through 2014 (with a team option for 2015) at an affordable salary—Gallardo will make $11.25 million next year, per Witrado‘s report—is appealing for the 29 other teams.
Gallardo has really turned his season around, only increasing his trade value. After hitting bottom with a 5.25 ERA on June 5, he has gone 2-0 in his last three starts with 15 strikeouts, five walks, 12 hits allowed and zero earned runs in 21 innings.
With all that in mind, we are going to highlight the five most likely destinations for Gallardo at the trade deadline.