The Chicago Cubs already traded the two most named players available at the trade deadline, but who could be the next player traded? Could it be left-handed relief pitcher James Russell? According to Peter Gammons, Russell was one of the most talked about players over the weekend.
Most teams are looking for relief pitching, especially left-handed ones and Russell is available. This season, Russell has appeared in 34 games and has a 2.22 earn run average while walking 10 and striking out 20 batters.
One team that was in the market for a left-handed relief pitcher and now can be cross off the list are the Los Angeles Angels. The Angels a few days ago acquired left-handed relief pitcher Joe Thatcher and outfielder Tony Campana for minor-league outfielder Zach Borenstein and right-handed pitcher Joey Krehbiel.
I do expect Russell to be traded this time around and when he is dealt, I expect the Cubs to call-up left-handed relief pitcher Zac Rosscup from Triple-A. Rosscup has spent time on the disabled list this season and in the time he has pitched, he’s gone 2-0 with a 2.70 earn run average in 19 games pitched with striking out 26 batters and issuing 8 walks.
Will Russell be the next domino to fall?