3 Cleveland Guardians who could be traded this offseason

Myles Straw is Expendable Despite Award-winning 2022

Straw’s value may never be higher, coming off a season in which he struggled offensively but ended up winning a Gold Glove Award. While the Guardians have ready-made replacements, many teams will see the value of adding a premier center fielder while hoping that his offense continues to improve in a move similar to what the Phillies did in adding Brandon Marsh at the trade deadline this year. Especially after seeing what improved defense did for the Phillies in fueling their run to the World Series, the Guardians would be wise to capitalize on a player like Straw at this time.

Meanwhile, Cleveland’s depth of prospects at nearly every position afford them the luxury of being able to be flexible in a return for Straw. They do not need to get a replacement for him back in any deal, because of their internal options. These include Will Brennan, who hit .314 with 40 doubles this year in the minor leagues, and made his presence felt in a short debut with the Guardians, hitting .357 with a home run and eight RBIs in 11 games. Brennan can play center or left field, giving the Guardians flexibility.

The Guardians #2 prospect George Valera will also likely join the Guardians’ crowded outfield picture in 2023. Valera will bring added power to a Guardians lineup that sorely lacked it last season. With the additions of Brennan and Valera, it will be difficult for Straw to find consistent playing time in Cleveland if he continues to struggle offensively.