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Guardians trade rumors: Cleveland looking to add at deadline

The team is reportedly looking to make multiple additions

By James Mastrucci

Cleveland Guardians v Los Angeles Angels
Cleveland Guardians v Los Angeles Angels / Katelyn Mulcahy/GettyImages
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The Cleveland Guardians have managed to find themselves in a tough spot when it comes to the upcoming trade deadline. They have played well enough to stay relevant in the American League Central division and contend for the postsesason. Arguments can be made for the team to head in either direction at the deadline, but it appears that the Guardians are looking to add rather than subtract.

Former MLB executive Jim Bowden stated that the Cleveland Guardans are looking to add both a starting pitcher and complimetary bat, this information comes from President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti. This is hardly surprising considering the current state of Cleveland's rotation and the notable struggles of the team offfensively.

The Guardians are currently without Shane Bieber and Triston McKenzie, currently relying on three rookie starters to handle the bulk of their starts. While Tanner Bibee, Logan Allen, and Gavin Williams have been more than admirable, banking on three players without experience prior to this season is a very risky proposition. A proposition that in fact may be too risky if the Guardians truly want to contend.

As far as offense goes, adding at least one bat is a necessity. The Guardians are still dead last in home runs with just 71 and 26th in slugging percentage (.382). There was hope entering the season that a few of the lighter hitting players in the lineup could see an uptick in power numbers, but it that was not to be. Additionally, bringing in Josh Bell has not worked out in the manner they expected as he appears to run very cold and moderately hot. Bell's three doubles and four home runs to go with a .871 OPS dating back to June 28th is encouraging, though it is hard to count on it lasting much longer.

It is going to come down to what moves of substance the Guardians can make before the deadline. As currently constructed this team may not get far if they do manage to make the postseason. A couple of additions however could change their fortunes for the better.