Josh Hader’s blown save against the San Francisco Giants reinforces the idea that the Brewers need to address the bullpen. Currently, the Brew Crew have two reliable relievers; righty Devin Williams and Hader. If the organization wants to make a deep playoff run trading for a relief pitcher before the Aug. 2 deadline is a must. Here are a few of the Brewers’ potential trade targets.
David Robertson
Chicago Cubs right handed reliever David Robertson is in the midst of a bounce-back season at the age of 37. Robertson is currently closing for the Cubs while pitching to a 1.98 ERA, 3.27 FIP, 4.5 H/9, 11.9 K/9, and a 0.981 WHIP. Although having a stellar season closing, Robertson has mentioned that he is willing to pitch in any inning for a contending team. One downside to a Robertson trade is that it would be an interdivisional trade. Teams are known to charge teams inside their own division more in trades than teams outside of their division. However, it is unlikely that the Cubs would charge the Brewers much more, as the Cubs are rebuilding and Robertson is already 37.
Andrew Chafin
The Detroit Tigers signed 32-year-old lefty Andrew Chafin to a two year deal. Tigers GM Al Avila signed Chafin expecting the team to take a step forward. Unfortunately, the Tigers have played to an abysmal 37-55. But Chafin has not been a part of the problem. In 28 1/3 innings Chafin has pitched to a 2.22 ERA, 2.33 FIP, 5.7 H/9, 0.3 HR/9, 10.8 K/9 and a 0.953 WHIP. Chafin would not take a lot to trade for, as the Tigers are also rebuilding and only has one additional year of control. He would slide into the set-up role with Devin Williams while also giving the Brewers a second lefty.
Joe Mantiply
Late blooming lefty Joe Mantiply may be on the move ahead of the deadline. The 31-year-old 2022 All-Star comes with five years of team control before he becomes a free agent. Mantiply blossomed pitching for the Arizona Diamondbacks, throwing a 2.27 ERA, 2.55 FIP, 8.3 H/9, 0.8 HR/9, 9.3 K/9, and a 0.981 WHIP. If the Brewers want to risk it and trade for a staple in their bullpen, Mantiply is their guy. Although he may cost a bit, as he is a 2022 All-Star, he is a worthwhile investment for the Brewers.
In the end, the Brewers are most likely make some type of move to improve their team. Friday’s game against the Giants proves that the Brewers need another reliever or two to be successful. These are just three of the many Brewers’ potential trade targets. It is also important to remember that Josh Hader is one of the best relievers in baseball when used correctly. Hader had a 1.82 ERA less than a week ago.
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