Any team looking to tinker with their roster ahead of the postseason must do so by Friday, Aug. 31. While each present their share of questions and challenges, Giancarlo Stanton and Justin Verlander are among the more intriguing players who in theory could be traded.
Verlander cleared waivers earlier this month, which came after he was made available by the Detroit Tigers ahead of the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. The Los Angeles Dodgers were among the teams tied to Verlander last month.
Stanton, the more attractive option of the two, reportedly cleared waivers more recently. Trade speculation involving the slugger has not nearly been as rampant.
However, according to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, the Marlins and Tigers are willing to enter into trade talks for Stanton and Verlander:
And both the Marlins and Tigers, respectively, are willing to engage in trade discussions involving the superstars after they cleared trade waivers this month, sources say.
Both Stanton and Verlander have exorbitant contracts and no-trade clauses that serve as hurdles to a potential deal. Stanton is owed $285 million over the next 10 years, which does not include a $25 million team option for 2028 ($10 million buyout). Though, he can opt out after the 2020 season.
Verlander has $65 million remaining on his contract that runs through the 2019 season. The Tigers reportedly were willing to assume the remainder of his 2017 salary in order to facilitate a trade in July.
Considering the Dodgers acquired Yu Darvish at the deadline and pitching depth in the organization, they don’t appear to be a match for Verlander. A trade for Stanton would make more sense for the Dodgers, though obstacles remain in completing such a deal.
Whether involving the Dodgers or another club, the more likely scenario appears to be the high-priced players getting moved during the offseason.
