Three underrated potential trade chips at MLB trade deadline

The most important trades can be those that are initially overlooked.

The likes of Pete Alonso, Randy Arozarena and Justin Verlander will attract plenty of attention as the trade deadline gets closer. Bigger stars get more coverage and more speculation. However, those players do not always impact their new teams the most. 

Although there is no guarantee any of the players listed are traded, they could make an impact. Let's take a look at three potential trade chips who are not getting any attention.

Patrick Sandoval

One left-handed starter who has struggled this season and is generating interest is Jesus Luzardo. The Los Angeles Angels have a similar option in Patrick Sandoval.

Sandoval was a solid middle-of-the-rotation arm from 2021 through 2023, generating grounders at an impressive 47.3% rate. Although he is still generating grounders at an above-average clip, he has not had the same degree of success he had in the past. Sandoval has a 5.24 ERA and a 1.500 WHiP in his 77.1 innings entering Friday with 80 strikeouts and 33 walks. 

However, Sandoval is just 27-years-old and has another two-and-a-half years of team control left. Any team interested in Luzardo could pivot to Sandoval if the Marlins' asking price goes beyond their comfort level.

Lucas Erceg

Mason Miller has drawn most of the attention in the Oakland A's bullpen. The young reliever has become a force as the A's closer and has drawn plenty of trade interest. However, as Miller is in his first full major league season, the A's have little incentive to trade him away despite rumors.

The A's have another reliever with years of team control who could be of interest. Lucas Erceg began his professional career as an infielder, topping out at Triple-A before converting to the mound in 2022. He quickly moved through the minors, making his major league debut with the A's in 2023. Erceg has posted a 3.96 ERA and a 1.200 WHiP over his 25 innings, striking out 30 batters with 11 walks.

He is still a work in progress and has some control issues. However, the 29-year-old is not eligible for arbitration until 2027 and could be a long-term piece for a contender. Erceg would not generate the same return as Miller, potentially making him a more palatable option.