Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
The Colorado Rockies roster features several prominent MLB trade candidates who would generate significant interest around the league this summer. While many of the top players aren’t available, recent Rockies rumors do reveal one player who could be moved.
Colorado, which has sat near the bottom of the MLB standings for two consecutive years, is one of the worst teams in baseball. Ordinarily, this would lead to a club tearing down its roster and launching into a complete rebuild to prepare for the future.
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The Rockies organization operates differently. Colorado rarely becomes full-time sellers at the MLB trade deadline, instead keeping the majority of its best players even when they are at their peak trade value. However, one All-Star from the Rockies lineup appears to be available.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Rockies are listening to trade offers on All-Star catcher Elias Diaz.
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Diaz, age 33, earned his first All-Star selection this past season. While he’s missed significant time this season with a calf injury, he returned to the Rockies on June 30. On an expiring contract, Colorado’s willingness to move him could open things up for a few teams who have largely been without quality production at catcher.
One difficulty Colorado will face with inquiring teams is the lack of trade value in catchers. Many clubs are hesitant to acquire an everyday catcher at the MLB trade deadline, in part due to the adjustments it forces a pitching staff to go through. However, Diaz is one of the catchers worth trading for.
Delivering All-Star production with the bat and proving to add value defensively, there are a few potential landing spots that stand out.
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