Deadline Sellers: 3 teams that need to shake up their rosters

by Brandon Wile Jul 22, 6:18 AM

Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports

With a little over a week left before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, the buyers and sellers have begun to separate themselves and talks among teams have ramped up.
The Philadelphia Phillies have made it no secret all season long that they intend to clean house, though when general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. will pull the trigger remains to be seen. The Phillies, however, are not the only team expected to shake things up. Here are three other teams that should consider retooling their roster before the turn of the calendar.

Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds are destined to miss the postseason for a second straight campaign, and general manager Walt Jocketty understands he'll need to retool a veteran-laden roster in order to succeed in the ultra-competitive NL Central. It works in Jocketty's favor that he possesses arguably the greatest number of solid trade chips of any seller, with impending ace Johnny Cueto leading the pack. While the right-hander's departure appears to be a foregone conclusion, the Reds are also expected to shop fellow starter Mike Leake, in addition to outfielders Marlon Byrd and Jay Bruce. While those four could bring solid pieces in return, the biggest fish Jocketty should dangle is closer Aroldis Chapman. Signed through next season, the Reds are unlikely to compete for a postseason spot in 2016, making the five-time All-Star potentially available. With a core of Zack Cozart, Devin Mesoraco, and Todd Frazier, the Reds still have plenty of pieces to build around.

San Diego Padres

San Diego Padres rookie general manger A.J. Preller showed no hesitation in putting his stamp on the team in the offseason, so don't be surprised if he tries to revamp his roster again after an enthusiastic first effort. Much like the Boston Red Sox's attempted retooling from a season ago, the Padres could follow suit (hoping to have more success), dealing from a core of impending free agents that includes outfielder Justin Upton, starter Ian Kennedy, and outfielder Will Venable. Infielder Clint Barmes and reliever Joaquin Benoit have affordable team options for next season that make them attractive pieces for teams looking to add depth. Don't be surprised if closer Craig Kimbrel or starters James Shields, Andrew Cashner, or Tyson Ross are also in play. Given Preller's reputation, anything could be in the cards.

Milwaukee Brewers

Few teams need a complete makeover more than the Milwaukee Brewers. On pace to miss the playoffs for a fourth straight season and the 31st time in the last 33 years, the Brewers are saddled with a number of veterans who have done little to raise their trade value with disappointing performances. General manager Doug Melvin will have his hands full turning straw into gold, though any additions to one of the league's worst farm systems would be welcome. Third baseman Aramis Ramirez, outfielder Gerardo Parra, first baseman Adam Lind, and left-hander Neal Cotts are all potential rentals that the Brewers will likely try to move. The team should also try to capitalize on strong seasons from closer Francisco Rodriguez, right-hander Mike Fiers, and outfielder Carlos Gomez. No player, not even catcher Jonathan Lucroy, should be considered untouchable.