MLB's July 30 trade deadline is just over a week away, and that means it's time to let the rumors flow like water. Below, you can find Thursday's most notable reports and trade speculation.
Handful of teams interested in Story
Rockies shortstop Trevor Story, who will qualify for free agency after the season ends, is expected to be one of the top players available at the deadline. Predictably, at least a handful of teams have inquired about his services.
According to Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post, six to eight teams have "engaged" the Rockies on Story. Saunders added that Rockies interim GM Bill Schmidt characterized that number "a little high."
Whatever the precise number is, Story is an appealing player despite his heretofore disappointing season. He entered Thursday hitting .243/.316/.423 with 11 home runs in 345 trips to the plate. Story came into this season with career marks of .277/.343/.535. If he can hit more like his old self the rest of the way, while providing good defense at the shortstop position, he could prove to be a difference-maker in a close race.
Royals more open to moving Merrifield
The Royals have held onto Whit Merrifield for longer than most rebuilding teams would have. That could be changing soon, however, as The Athletic's Jayson Stark has heard Kansas City is more willing to entertain the notion of moving him than it was in the past.
Merrifield, 32, has hit .290/.336/.442 with 33 home runs and 57 stolen bases over the last three seasons. He's done that while yo-yoing between second base and the corner outfield, giving him more defensive versatility than the typical player.
One of the most appealing facets to Merrifield's game is his team-friendly contract. Including a club option in 2023, he's owed less than $15 million the next two years. Between that and his aforementioned defensive versatility, he's a fit for most every contender.
