The current AL West picture: the Rangers hold a wide lead, the Angels and Athletics are on the fringe of contention, and the Mariners are out of it. Waiver trade candidates:
The Rangers could consider moving Rich Harden, though the righty came off the DL on Saturday and had a fine start. Even with Derek Holland lurking in Triple A, though, I think it makes sense to maintain the depth. Scott Feldman, recently shifted to the bullpen, could clear waivers.
Angels veterans Bobby Abreu, Brian Fuentes, Hideki Matsui, Fernando Rodney, Scot Shields, and Juan Rivera could all clear waivers, in my estimation. The relievers could generate interest, though.
Athletics assistant GM David Forst recently told ESPN's Jayson Stark they're seriously considering "bringing back the same 25 guys next year." Forst may not have meant that literally, but it doesn't appear they'll dump contracts.
As for the Mariners, Milton Bradley figures to clear waivers if he returns from the DL this month. Chone Figgins might clear too, but if he's claimed the Ms have to at least consider bailing on his contract. Jack Wilson might get through, with $5MM owed next year. Same goes for Casey Kotchman, a non-tender candidate after the season. Jose Lopez isn't too expensive, so he might be claimed. I imagine Russell Branyan would be claimed as well. Various lightly-paid Mariners veterans could be moved in minor deals: Jamey Wright, Mike Sweeney, Josh Bard, and Ryan Langerhans come to mind.
For our primer on the waiver trade rules, click here.
