The Cleveland Guardians are looking to add a powerful bat, particularly an outfielder, to their lineup. While Steven Kwan holds down left field and Lane Thomas plays center, right field remains a position of need. Though the Guardians have internal options like Jhonkensy Noel, Will Brennan, and top prospect Chase DeLauter, there are concerns about inconsistency and readiness, especially with DeLauter possibly not being MLB-ready for 2025.
One potential target for the Guardians is Brent Rooker, a slugger who hit 39 home runs with a .927 OPS last season. Although Rooker is more commonly a designated hitter, he can also play both outfield corners, making him an appealing option for Cleveland. However, trade talks surrounding Rooker have reportedly come to an end, with Oakland Athletics GM David Forst stating, “We’re going to keep (Rooker).” This likely rules out a trade for the powerful outfielder.
Brent Rooker is one of the few valuable trade assets the Oakland Athletics have, and the recent comments from A’s GM David Forst, indicating that they intend to keep him, could very well be a strategic move. It may be posturing to maintain Rooker’s trade value and send a message to other teams that acquiring him would come at a significant cost. By claiming they’re not actively looking to trade him, the A’s avoid devaluing his worth in the market.
While Oakland exceeded expectations in 2024, they are still far from contention, and flipping Rooker for the right return could be an option down the line if they decide to further their rebuild.
The Cleveland Guardians have the depth and quality in their farm system to potentially make a deal for Rooker, but whether they pull the trigger on a trade remains uncertain.
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