A GM’s job is never done, and Mike Chernoff might be trying to swing a pretty significant deal for bullpen help before the season gets officially underway.
And with a surprising decision made to bolster the bullpen, it’s no wonder that teams might come calling about Trevor Bauer’s availability.
Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning news is reporting that the Rangers have checked in on the availability of Bauer, as well as Cody Anderson and Josh Tomlin. Anderson and Tomlin, respectively, are slotted in as the fourth and fifth starters. The Indians would reportedly be looking for upgrades other than the likes of Dan Otero and others.
It seems unlikely from where I’m sitting, as the Tribe would surely and rightfully ask for a considerable haul in return for a guy that still has ace potential. But if the Tribe were to ship Bauer off to the Rangers, it probably reinforces the long-standing belief that the Diamondbacks have had in that he’s just a tough guy to deal with. And with Bauer still not taking the next step, it could be that the Indians are finally running out of patience with Bauer’s stubbornness.
Anderson and Tomlin appear to be the easier guys to move, but at this late in the game, it seems unlikely that anything appears imminent. The groundwork could be laid for the teams to hook up in the summer, so we’ll have to keep our eyes peeled for any more smoke.