The Diamondbacks’ top priority in trades is starting pitching, GM Kevin Towers tells MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert (Twitter links). Next on their list is catching and then outfield help — in that order. Towers adds that his team isn’t looking to add any bullpen arms, but they have received interest in the ones they have.
With Aaron Hill and Martin Prado both struggling, Arizona’s bullpen could hold its most attractive trade chips (although Gerardo Parra is reportedly being shopped as well). Left-hander Oliver Perez’s affordable contract would be appealing to teams in need of a southpaw (the Braves and Pirates, for example). Right-hander Brad Ziegler is having a strong season, although somewhat curiously, the team doesn’t sound open to moving him. Even closer Addison Reed has recently been rumored to be available, which would add a more affordable late-inning option to the market (relative to Jonathan Papelbon and Joaquin Benoit, that is).
As Towers tells Gilbert, other clubs know what the Diamondbacks are looking to receive in return for their players, and for the time being, he’s waiting while the interested parties weigh the offers (Twitter link).
Why do they keep saying Prado is struggling? He is hitting .280, his HR numbers aren’t great and his RBIs are low but he has hit 2nd a lot during the season. Plus everyone knows he always heats up come August. Hill also was hitting over .400 during his 10 game git streak that was only broken after he flied out during a pinch hit.
Prado has batted all over the place this season. 110+ AB(s) at the #2 spot & 80+ AB(s) in each of the #4, 5, & 6 spots. He has heated up in July & will continue to be hot in August, just like last season. But is only batting .271 at the moment.