The Guardians Are Considering Trading Aaron Civale, Industry Sources Say
CHICAGO — Multiple industry sources have revealed that the Guardians are contemplating trading their starting pitcher Aaron Civale. It’s a decision that the team has been mulling over, and understandably so.
With a growing number of buyers in the trade market, many of them specifically looking for starting pitchers with multiple years of team control, Civale has become a hot commodity. His performance this season has been outstanding, with a 2.34 ERA and an impressive 1.45 ERA in his six July starts. Opposing hitters have struggled against him, managing only a .176/.229/.229 slash line.
Not only does Civale possess exceptional skills on the mound, but he also has two and a half years of team control. Additionally, his salary next year is estimated to be twice the $2.6 million he is currently earning, making him a highly valuable asset for the Guardians. As the team remains in contention in a lackluster AL Central, Civale’s contributions could be crucial to their chances of making it to the postseason.
The Guardians’ starting rotation has been plagued by injuries, making Civale’s presence even more vital. Key pitchers like Shane Bieber, Triston McKenzie, and Cal Quantrill are all sidelined with arm troubles. The team has concerns about the workload of the three rookies who have stepped in to replace them.
Although the Guardians have explored various options to bolster their rotation, Civale remains their most reliable innings-eater. His consistent performance and ability to go deep into games make him an invaluable asset for the team. According to outfielder Will Brennan, Civale has really come into his own this year and has the potential to be a frontline pitcher.
Scouts and executives from other teams are undoubtedly aware of Civale’s talent as well. A metric called Stuff+, created by The Athletic’s Eno Sarris to measure the physical characteristics of pitches, rates Civale’s curveball as the best among all starting pitchers.
As the Guardians weigh their options, the market and the offers from other teams will play a crucial role. While rentals like Lucas Giolito and Jordan Montgomery have already been traded, Civale’s extended team control makes him an attractive target for teams in need of starting pitching.
If the Guardians decide to trade Civale, they are looking for a young, controllable hitter in return, preferably an outfielder who can slot into the middle of their lineup. They may also consider a deal that includes a back-end starter to fill the gap left by Civale’s departure. The Orioles and Cardinals have been mentioned as potential trade partners, as they have surplus outfielders and a need for starting pitchers with multiple years of control.
Alternatively, the Guardians could opt to trade prospects for a bat instead. However, this may be a more viable option during the offseason when more teams are out of contention and willing to part with promising hitters.
Ultimately, the decision to trade Civale rests on the Guardians’ front office. While they could hold onto him until the offseason, it is worth noting that they may also consider trading Bieber at that time.
The Guardians find themselves in a delicate position, contending closely with the Twins. The team’s management must carefully weigh their options and make a critical decision regarding their top starting pitcher.
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