The Cleveland Guardians are poised to be among the most active teams in baseball leading up to the July 30 MLB trade deadline, and it’s easy to see why.
As owners of the best record in the American League, the Guardians have a genuine shot at contending for a World Series this season. However, their roster has notable deficiencies that could hinder a deep playoff run.
Chief among these concerns is their starting rotation, a topic that has been extensively debated. Additionally, Cleveland’s offense, despite sending four players to the All-Star Game, heavily relies on a handful of contributors—Jose Ramirez, Steven Kwan, Josh Naylor, and David Fry. Fry’s recent drop in performance underscores the team’s need for offensive depth.
Statistically, the Guardians rank a modest 12th in OPS this year, highlighting their need for additional offensive firepower.
Enter Jesse Winker of the Washington Nationals, who appears likely to be available for trade given his team’s struggles in 2024. Winker’s .818 OPS, All-Star history in 2021, and affordable $1.5 million salary for 2024 make him an appealing target for Cleveland, especially since he will enter free agency after the season. His improved defensive metrics this year, along with his ability to steal bases, further enhance his value.
Considering he would essentially be a rental player, turning 31 in August, the cost to acquire Winker might be reasonable. Despite his recent ups and downs, including standout performances with the Cincinnati Reds in 2021, Winker’s career .265/.371/.443 slash line and skill at drawing walks make him an attractive addition to bolster Cleveland’s lineup deficiencies.
While there’s inherent risk, particularly in his recent inconsistent seasons, Winker’s potential to contribute significantly to Cleveland’s playoff ambitions cannot be overlooked. His versatility, though primarily a left fielder, could potentially address needs in right field, offering an upgrade over injured player Will Brennan.
It remains to be seen if the Guardians will pursue Winker in the upcoming weeks, but he represents a compelling option to enhance their postseason prospects.
