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Even though they’re still in discussions to land starter Cole Hamels, the Texas Rangers are reportedly shopping their own starting pitcher, Yovani Gallardo. Here are the five most likely teams to deal for the talented free-agent-to-be.
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
Getty ImagesEven though the Pirates' top three in the rotation of Gerrit Cole, A.J. Burnett and Francisco Liriano is outstanding, the team is reportedly still looking for additional starting pitching to add depth. It would seem to make sense to try and acquire Gallardo at a low price since he has such high upside. He could truly make Pittsburgh's rotation elite.
4. Kansas City Royals
Getty ImagesWith Yordano Ventura going to the minor leagues and Jason Vargas injured again, the Royals need pitching help desperately. They would love to add a big name like Johnny Cueto, but if they can't do that, they will target someone like Gallardo. If nothing else, they need pitching depth and Gallardo would instantly help with that.
3. New York Yankees
Getty ImagesLike the Royals, the Yankees have their sights set higher than Gallardo, but they might still pursue him. If the team wants to add a top-of-the-rotation starter as well as a middle-of-the-rotation guy, Gallardo could fit into the second category. Adding an ace and Gallardo at the deadline would make the Yankees one of the most dangerous teams in the American League.
2. Chicago Cubs
Caylor Arnold - USA Today SportsThe Cubs would like to add another starter, but given the fact that they're likely only to compete for a Wild Card spot, they don't want to sell the farm for an ace. They do, however, appear willing to trade mid-level prospects for pitching depth at the deadline. Since Gallardo is newly available, they could strongly consider trying to acquire the former division rival.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Getty ImagesThe Dodgers are thinking big this trade deadline, and Gallardo could now be in their plans. With Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke at the top, L.A. is very top-heavy in the rotation. They appear to be the favorites to land Cole Hamels, who would slide nicely into the No. 3 starter spot and would fix the top-heavy problem. If they can also get Gallardo and slide him into the No. 4 starter spot, it could be a landslide victory.
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