MLB Trade Rumors: Three ‘Hot’ Players could be Targeted

During the offseason, teams are on the hunt for players that can add depth to their line-ups. So far, the MLB has proven that trade season can come with many twists and turns, with teams giving up unexpected players. Even though trades cannot be predicted, here are three of some of the leagues hottest players that could be targeted for a trade this offseason.

1. Justin Upton, Atlanta Braves, Outfielder

Justin Upton, 27, could be targeted by other teams during this offseason. In 2014, Upton proved that he is a threat at the bat, hitting 29 homeruns. He finished the season hitting .270 with 102 RBI.

"With about 12 teams looking for an outfielder, and at least that many seeking that rarest of commodities, right-handed power, Upton is a marked man these days," Jon Heymon with CBS Sports reasoned. "Word is, the Braves have been hit hard with Upton trade interest, and he could wind up with one of about a dozen other teams, assuming he is dealt (and that appears to be a likelihood now)."

The Braves just signed outfielder Nick Markakis to a four-year contract, which means that they could be willing to trade Upton for the right deal.

2. Jeff Samardzija, Oakland Athletics, Pitcher

The Oakland Athletics have proven that any trade is possible after trading Josh Donaldson, who just had two stellar seasons for Brett Lawrie and three prospects. According to Ken Rosenthal with Fox Sports, "The Athletics, according to a major-league source, have at least one more significant trade brewing. The source went on to say, 'This is Billy re-working the club.'"

That significant trade could be starting pitcher, Jeff Samardzija, who will become a free agent. Rumors are circulating that Samardzija could go to the Chicago White Sox, which is his hometown. The Boston Red Sox are reportedly interested in the pitcher as well.

According to Nick Cafardo with the Boston Globe, "Numerous teams are trying to obtain the righthander, including the Red Sox, according to a team source. Samardzija is 29 and can become a free agent in 2016. GM Billy Beane is fielding offers as he is in a trade frenzy trying to re-create his contending team. The Red Sox have all the pieces Beane would want, including young pitching and middle infielders."

3. Cole Hamels, Philadelphia Phillies, Pitcher

Cole Hamels has been a rock solid starting pitcher for the Philadephia Phillies. He finished last season with a 2.46 ERA through 204.2 innings. Hamels, who turns 31 in a few weeks, has also been the subject of trade rumors. According to these rumors, the Phillies have been doing background work on the Red Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Rosenthal with Fox Sports added that the Chicago Cubs could also be interested in getting the left-handed ace.