MLB Trade Rumors: Prince Fielder, Travis d'Arnaud, and Others

Yesterday brought fantasy owners plenty of rumors, none bigger than the news that Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen is "not untouchable" and the team would listen to offers for him. I am sure all GMs listen to offers for any player on their team, just as fantasy owners listen to offers on players they covet, most of these offers are just that - offers.

We also learned that the Nationals have "serious" interest in former Brewer first baseman Prince Fielder. I would not be surprised to see Fielder land in Washington, as he fits that lineup perfectly. They need another big power hitter in their lineup, he bats left handed, so he could break up Ryan Zimmerman and Michael Morse in the middle of the Nationals lineup. Plus, he is still young, so he would fit in well with the rest of the youth on the Nationals.

Sure, the Nationals already have Adam Laroche on their roster, but there is no telling what type of player he will be when he returns. Laroche had shoulder surgery last season and could be trade bait should Fielder sign with the Nationals. 

More trade rumor thoughts after the jump:

It was reported last night that the Phillies are looking at ways to re-acquire catcher Travis d'Arnaud from the Blue Jays. I have to think the Blue Jays would start with outfielder Domonic Brown, once labeled "untouchable" by GM Ruben Amaro Jr. But, with that said, if any GM can pull that off, it will be Amaro. d'Arnaud is considered the second best catching prospect in baseball, behind Reds catcher Devin Mesoraco. d'Arnaud hit .311-.371-.542 with 21 HRs, 78 RBI, 33 doubles and a 100-33 K/BB rate.

Speaking of the Jays, they are interesting in signing closer Heath Bell, but with so many closer options on the free agent, as well as the trade market, one has to think it makes sense to wait to see if contract demands come down. The closers available via trade include Andrew Bailey, Houston Street and Carlos Marmol, along with free agents Matt Capps, Ryan Madsen, Francisco Cordero, among others.

The Rockies are now listening to offers for third baseman Ian Stewart, a week after dealing Ty Wigginton to the Phillies. A year after adding Jose Lopez and Ty Wigginton, the Rockies are ridding themselves of under-achievers. Could they be making room for Aramis Ramirez? One has to wonder if ridding themselves of Street's and Wigginton's contracts would help them sign a player like Ramirez.