EHCC Trehde Rumors: Eastern Division

With all the focus on the "slumping" Western division, the East side of the EHCC is the one that only sports three teams at or above .500 going into Week 10 (West has 5). The picture in the East has become a bit more clear for some as to what the next few weeks hold, and the rumors swirling enforce what everyone is already thinking. Click below for a team-by-team breakdown of all the rumors collected from around the Eastern Division, and other insights as to the direction of each franchise.

EHCC Trehde Rumors: Eastern Division
By: Jim Fierkes, EHCCTrehdeRumors.com


Weymouth Shaddupu

Let's start with the juggernaut shaddy poo. The islanders have had one of the strongest starts in EHCC history, but all it takes is that one loss to get the fans clamoring for reinforcements. Don't expect any big moves from Yukon this trade deadline. While the team waits for Ryan Braun and Mike Trout to come back the Poo would be wise to simply bring up Cody Bellinger to get a taste of winning at the highest level. Fans would really love to see Aaron Judge out there instead, but alas, he's stuck down the street in Bridgewater doing his best Daniel Murphy impression. If they're going to make any move, Bellinger is the guy to dangle and the best way to do it is put him in the field and show him off to his upcoming opponent list (SD, RIO, QC), who could all potentially become sellers by the deadline. But seeing Aaron Judge perform at the level has this year may be enough to give GM Yukon Cornelius second thoughts about trading their next best outfield prospect. When asked if Weymouth had anything in the works, Cornelius stated simply "I've got nothing". (First reported by Kai Yack of the Islander Issues)

San Fernando Valley Jets

From the best to the worst - San Fernando is not in an enviable position by any standards. They have the least desirably assets of any potential seller, the one asset that is expected to be of any value (2018 1st round MaDP) is simply off the table, and there's simply no end in sight. The Jets were one of the teams interested in trading for Kyle Schwarber, but with Las Vegas now expecting to be sellers at the deadline (more on them later), this is not looking like a likely match. The three assets that should end up being on the move by time the deadline roles around should be Mike Moustakas (3B), Marcell Ozuna (OF), and Corey Knebel (RP). With no clear, long term answer for losing Adrian Beltre, Dublin would be the logical landing spot for Moustakas, though word has it plenty of teams could use an upgrade at the hot corner. Ozuna has been reportedly unhappy in San Fernando ever since moving there. "No one cares, not even the fans. I'm a winner, simple as that. I need to be somewhere that wants winners," Ozuna told a group of Tijuana reporters after a recent road trip where the Jets lost 2-8. Ozuna is playing at the start of his "prime" and would net the biggest return, but Corey Knebel may be the first Jet to take off for a new destination. Talks have already been had with Rakeville, Las Vegas, and Tijuana regarding the young power bullpen arm. Tijuana makes the most sense here, and they should end up being the strongest "buyer" at the deadline of the three, willing to give up what San Fernando needs. (First reported by Holly Woodsign of the San Fernando Valley High School Pearl Post)

Rakeville Rockets

The newest info out of Rakeville is that they still want to win. After winning 3 of their last 4 match ups they have put away the fire sale signs and they're considering buying - of all things though they're in the market for bullpen help. The Rockets are one of two teams that have yet to win the Saves category all season (Quebec City is the other), and they have racked up a total of 2 whole saves all season - both thanks to their Tony Watson trade(s) earlier this season. GM Jack Reed has a reputation of being stingy and unwilling to answer requests for information unless tempted with Bagel Bites, but the rumors are swirling pretty strong around the Rockets listening to offers on Eric Thames (OF) and Jose Abreau (1B). However, even with all the assumptions of a veteran purge in Rakeville, teams aren't getting their hopes up as they might have in the past regarding star 1B Miguel Cabrera. "Miggy is gunna die wearing maroon and gold, but the dong master Thames is as good as gone in Rakeville," one rival GM assumed. (First reported by Aviator McShadesless of the Rakeville Times)

Las Vegas Doggs

The most active team in the league this season (43 moves made leads the league as of midway through Week 10) has already made three trades before the end of May., and shows no signs of stopping. They've made no secret of their desire to trade away veteran starter Jon Lester and disable listed starter Drew Smyly. They've also got a lot of old junk on the bench that could be considered desirable at the deadline to a team looking for an impact bat - but no one is biting. Look for guys like Kinsler (2B), McCutchen (OF), and Carpenter (1B) to end up being waiver trade dumps after the deadline - something the Doggs are typically the ones to jump on as they did with Justin Turner last season. The defending champs biggest hole is easily their minor league system, and trading away their two best protected arms to Quebec City didn't help any. With Villar and Matt Carpenter already publicly announcing they both refuse to play the hot corner next year, the Doggs main target looks to be 3B prospect Rafeal Devers, San Juan's prized piece. Las Vegas has been aggressive so far, but reports are saying San Juan will be standing pat on Devers until the end of July, though trading him is not out of the question if they think it'll help them catch the poo. (First reported by Max Powers of Baseball Tri-Weekly)

San Juan Guertites

Speaking of San Juan, the Guertites have been going through some clubhouse pains as of late, stemming from their recent struggles (losing 3 of their last 4). The loss of Chapman (RP), Syndergaard (SP), and Bumgarner (SP) have really taken its toll on the rest of the San Juan pitching staff and it's showing on the field. Between weeks 4 and 9, the San Juan pitching staff has only won 8 out of a possible 20 pitching categories, failing to take Wins or Strikeouts in any of those match ups. In that same time the Guertites have gone 1-3-1, but all the while their bats keep clicking: they took over half of the possible offensive categories in that same time. "It's time these pitchers got their act together and started pitching like they give a damn," Joey Batista told reporters after their 8-1 blow out loss to Tokyo. GM Dave Femino isn't the type of take this type of drama laying down has he's proven back in 2014 when he traded away Robinson Cano after he reportedly insulted the team bat boy who happened to be Femino's cousin's neighbor. "A spark may need to be lit," an anonymous source from inside the organization told beat reporter Stephen Eh Smith. (yes, Stephen Eh is a beat reporter now too. You got a problem with that?!). Rumors are now swirling that San Juan might make a quick move to make a point and it may involve a big name like Chapman, or a young piece like Vince Velasquez (SP). Joey Bats may also get the boot finally, as he's become the biggest voice of frustration from the line up, which isn't helping overall morale. Long term, look for San Juan to be buyers as they dangle prospect Rafeal Devers and MiDP's to the few sellers in the league (SD, LV, SFV, QC) for some pitching help that will push their rotation where it needs to be. (First reported by yours truly Stephen Eh Smith of Wherever He Damn Well Feels Like!)

Bridgewater Weasels

Up and coming team out of nowhere one week, back in their parents' basement the next. The Weasels are a few more Daniel Murphy-for-Aaron Judge trades away from making the long term jump. Their most obvious trade piece worth a damn is elder statesman Fernando Rodney (RP), whom Bridgewater would be smart to shop now while he's on a nice little streak. It would make a nice reunion with the Rockets if they are serious about getting some bullpen help in Rakeville. Plus Bridgewater already has his heir-apparent in Archie Bradley waiting in the wings. Beyond that the Weasels are pretty bare in most other areas and are expected to hold onto all their MiPicks this. There's always the possibility they decide to sell high on someone like Justin Smoak (1B). Staying with the theme, fans are expecting Weymouth to go all in and make the same trade with Bridgewater this year as they did last year. So, expect a Justin Smoak/Fernando Rodney combo headed to Weymouth, in return for Cody Bellinger and 3 1st round picks. (First reported by Aaron Judge. He does everything for this team.)


Jim Fierkes is the founder and sole writer of www.EHCCTrehdeRumors.com. In his spare time he likes working on a VW van that sits in his neighbor's back yard under the light of the moon, unbeknownst to them.

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EHCC Trehde Rumors: Western Edition

With Dominican Today reporter Freddie May saying the Western Division is having a down season, rumors can't help but start swirling. Someone will have to end up on top, and it'll be the team willing to make the right moves that takes full advantage. With literally every team in the division feeling as if there's still light at the end of the tunnel, we may see all 6 teams as buyers this deadline season, but you can't buy what's not being sold. Here's a 6-team breakdown of the rumors swirling around the Western Division, as first reported by others, and compiled by EHCCTrehdeRumors.com.

EHCC Trehde Rumors: Western Edition<
By: Jim Fierkes


Quebec City

One week they're threatening to trade away every veteran with a pulse, the next week they're playing San Fernando Valley and feeling like champions again. The ownership goes back and forth each week trying to figure out what to make of the 2017 season, but our gut is they'll be sellers come the deadline - even if they have a shot at the playoffs - which they do since they're in the Western Division. The biggest moves will revolve around slugger Edwin Encarnacion. Edwin has the best ability to make an impact on a contending team this season, even with his slow start to 2017. He'll bring back the biggest haul to Canada, as the Piglets look to build for 2018 around Yoan Moncada at 2B and [George] Springer and [Michael] Conforto in the outfield. Sure, other rumors swirl around longtime piglet Evan Longoria, as Pat Renaud has been trying to unload him for over a season now, but unless the Piglets are able to convince a team to take his contract (like they did with McCutchen to Vegas), don't expect Longoria to be the centerpiece of any deal. Possible waiver trade after the deadline. [First reported by Kole DasHale of the Canadian Freeze Press]

Rio De Janeiro

As first reported last month, Rio is stead fast on their approach to the upcoming trading season. They've improved considerably already with the "additions" of Josh Donaldson, Troy Tulowitzki, and Robinson Cano. They continue to utilize their 12th waiver priority to their advantage, picking up young, unprotected talent that other teams are unwilling to use their waiver priority out of fear of missing out on "the next best thing". Look for Rio to become buyers come July, as they will realize that those waiver pick ups won't win them a championship. As the only 'Claffey brother' without a ring, Rio ownership has felt a lot of pressure from fans and family alike to stop being a terrible disappointment. All signs point to Rio going out and buying up depth in their rotation - value they won't be able to find on the waiver wire. [First reported by Emma Zonnrevar of the Rio Times]

Tokyo

It's been really difficult to get any information out of Japan. The Omyoujis have one of the best firewalls installed and leaks are very difficult to come by. Fans are clamoring for more winning, as they've finally gotten a taste of the good stuff - something they've been without for over four seasons. Fans are hoping their new robot overlords have been programed to be buyers after the MiDraft. Their biggest need? You guessed it, starting pitching. The biggest asset to spare: Draft Picks. The team rarely makes it to the drafts anyway, so these things should be flying off the shelf in Tokyo come July. Making a move before the 2017 MiDraft should also be on the table, but unless management has been reprogramed they will probably only look to move those picks for future picks so that they can move them closer to the deadline. [First reported by Kim Moanoe of the Japanese Gazette]

Tijuana

The Hispanics have found a way to take advantage of a weakened Western Division thus far, but they'll need to do more to sure up their roster to keep it going for the entire season. With Rio already making moves, Tokyo showing life, and Dublin bound to push along, Tijuana just doesn't have the roster to sustain their early track record all season. Other issue, Tijuana ownership has simply forgotten how to be "buyers". When you've been sellers for the past 3 seasons, you get into a sort of groove. The last time they made a "buyers" trade was 2012 when they traded for Jake Peavy and Rex Brothers (yes, Rex Brothers) at the deadline. Rumors do say Tijuana will look to solidify their relief pitching core, as they look to win saves every week for the entire season - even if it's at the cost of making the playoffs all together. [First reported by Bill Dawahl of the Cartel Chronicle]

Dublin

With the strongest chance of winning the division heading into the season, the Snake Chasers have tried everything they can to stay under the radar. It's their way of life really. No one expects them to make any moves at all. But maybe that's how they get you? No, it's not, it's just who they are. Ownership continues to to be happy with their excellent core of starting pitching and simply feels there's nowhere to improve their line up. They are just that good. Look for ownership to 'try' to unload one of their many middle infielders for an additional ace, or top tier closer, but in the process fail to return calls and refuse to negotiate, because Dublin.[First reported by a drunk fan in a nameless sports bar - because, Dublin]

Santo Domingo

Even with their poor start to the season, Santo Domingo will look to be buyers at the deadline. Their biggest hole is middle infielders (ring ring Dublin ring ring), or outfield. Depending on how they want to play it, or what becomes available in July, the All-Star Factory could part ways with Carlos Gonzalez to another team looking to buy low, and then spin the goods they can get for him for an upgrade in their line up. With the deepest bullpen in the league, Santo Domingo also has assets to burn to a team looking to sure up the category and isn't willing to fight for waiver wire closers in August (ring ring Tijuana ring ring). Cole Hamels will be a nice addition when they get him back, but not enough to hold firm. All-Star Factory should be targeting rotation depth, possibly even before the MiDraft as they hold 2 of the top three picks in the upcoming draft - which could net a good haul if there's a team already looking to sell and think about 2018/2019/2020 (ring ring Quebec City ring ring). [First reported by Don Minokan of the Caribbean Broadcast System]


Jim Fierkes scours the internet looking for anything that resembles an EHCC rumor. He does no reporting of his own and lives in his aunt's attic, unbeknownst to her. 

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EHCC Trehde Rumors

In the wake of the Quebec City/Las Vegas mega trade that sent Xander Bogaerts packing to cover the hole in Vegas, while asking Jake Arrieta to sure up the Piglet's rotation, the EHCC is a buzz with new rumors across the league. Every team wants to make their team better, whether it's better now to win the current match up, or to win it all in 2019 - there's usually something for everyone out there, you just have to be willing to dig deep to find it. Here's some rumblings that have been heard from around the league....

EHCC Trehde Rumors

By: Jim Fierkes, EHCCTrehdeRumors.com

Selling Low on Schwarber?

The Las Vegas Doggs have reportedly received 3 separate phone calls regarding the availability of slugger Kyle Schwarber. GM Howe Dogg has recently added Schwarber, along with about half of the current Doggs' roster, to the league trading block, making him an intriguing "buy low" candidate for any team. Seems like a long shot for the Doggs to give up the outfield for anything less than they gave up for him just last season, considering his age and current position versatility, though it's expected Schwarber will have no chance of putting on the mask and pads behind the plate in 2018, but may have a future at First Base as well as in the Outfield instead. (The information was first reported by Connor Intabedd of the Reno Weekly Rag)

McCutchen Requests Trade

Andrew McCutchen has been benched by manager Hank Scorpio in Vegas, as he hasn't bounced back into form as quickly as Scorpio was hoping he would after acquiring the veteran from Quebec City, replacing Jay Bruce in the Vegas outfield. After hearing the news of his benching, McCutchen has requested that GM Howe Dogg take the reigns and trade him to a place where he's wanted. Howe Dogg has stated that he will do just that, only issue is that no one seems to want him. 

"We barely wanted him. He doesn't fit with our future at all. We chose him over [Evan] Longoria just because he was still able to play the outfield and we thought he might be able to supplement the lose of Jay [Bruce]. We were wrong it seems," manager Hank Scorpio told reporters in yesterday's post-game press conference. It seems as though there's already bad blood in Vegas between McCutchen and Scorpio, and we wouldn't expect to see McCutchen cut any time soon, as Scorpio has shown he can be stubborn toward his players who don't perform. (This information was first reported by Max Powers of Baseball Tri-Weekly)

Closers Changing Hands

With Tijuana's recent signing of Brad Hand, he adds to the list of shaky closers making up the Hispanics' bullpen. Tijuana has dominated the Saves category this season, currently leading the lead in the stat, and has yet to lose or even tie the category in any of their first seven match ups. If they want to continue their dominance in the 'pen, they'll need to start making phone calls for some more solid options to assist Brandon Kintzler. Multiple Tijuana pitchers (Feliz, Cishek, Mauer) have already lost their jobs it seems, and Hand is slated to move cities in the coming month or so, probably losing his newly announce closing responsibilities. Lucky for Tijuana, it looks as though there's a few teams out there looking to shop their closers San Fernando and San Juan have both expressed their interest, or intention or shopping around at least one, or multiple closers for the right price. In the past 3 seasons, at least two established closers have been traded between the MiDraft and the Trade Deadline each year, so the odds are someones' bullpen is getting an upgrade. (This information was first reported by Skip Clifton of the San Diego Chronicle)

Rocketeers

While the league was buzzing about Eric Thames and all his dongs, Jedd Gyorko has quietly lived in his shadow raising his stock under the radar. GM Jack Reed has taken notice and has been busy working the phones. His phones only work in one direction - outgoing calls only - so if he doesn't get through to another GM they'd never even know Gyorko was on the market. And ultimately, there's no way for another GM to get in touch with Reed beyond carrier pigeon. Rumors are swirling the only conversations that have actually taken place are with new manager/AGM Hank Scorpio in Vegas. Scorpio has already made one deal with Rakeville, shipping off Tommy Watson for a conditional 2018 MaDP, which is shaping up to be a terrible deal for both teams as Watson has given up 5 ER in 4.2 IP for Rakeville thus far, but only needs 15 more Saves to activate the 1st Round condition on the MaDP. Rakeville would prob be best to try to move Watson soon before he regains form, or before he does more damage. Rakeville is currently in line to have the #3 overall MaDP. (This information was first reported by J.C. Stapelton of EhSPN)

Rio Making Upgrades with Themselves

It seems it's going to be tough for the Cristos to make a deal as they simply don't know what they need. They're ultimately trading with themselves int he next few weeks, as they's recently seen the return of Robinson Cano (an upgrade over their previous 2B option of, well, the ghost of Ryne Sandberg) and is expecting to upgrade SS and 3B with Troy Tulowitzki and Josh Donaldson respectively. Their rotation should also get a jolt in the coming week or two with the addition of David Price and Steven Matz. So it should come as no surprise that Rio's GM Tom Brady has formally told other teams that he is not in the market for anyone except his own players at the moment. We'll expect him to change his stance when inevitably Ryan Zimmerman contracts Lyme Disease and Nelson Cruz gets scurvy. (This information was first reported by a squirrel at the Rio Times. Apparently all their reporters are sick and have temporarily been replaced by wild rodents. That breaking news is an EHCCTrehdeRumors.com original)

Jim Fierkes is the editor and contributor to www.EHCCTrehdeRumors.com. When he's not scouring the internet for the next big scoop to post on his blog that was ultimately heard and written by someone else first, he's collecting peach pits that look like the late Al Davis. 

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