Mlb Clubs Can Enhance Lineups In Multiple Ways

The MLB trade deadline has officially come to a close. Clubs have been buzzing with activity as they scramble to bolster their pitching staffs or add an impactful everyday player. The anticipation surrounding these trades has added an extra level of excitement to the game, even while no balls are being hit or fastballs tossed on the field.

Players have packed their bags, ready to form new friendships and establish new dynamics with their new teammates. The trade deadline marks the business side of the game, an aspect that players have limited control over but greatly impacts how they conduct themselves on the field.

However, exceptions are often made, just as with any set of rules or guidelines. In the case of MLB, while trading came to a halt at 6:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, another avenue opens up for clubs to acquire players for their rosters.

Firstly, players on an MLB club’s 40-man roster or on the 60-day injured list remain eligible for postseason play. However, they must be on either of these lists by August 31.

Here is where scouting departments become even more essential. Keeping a close eye on talented individuals in Triple-A and Double-A leagues could make all the difference in securing valuable additions to the team at a discounted price. These fresh bodies could prove crucial in the pursuit of a pennant down the stretch.

Once July is underway, players placed on waivers can be claimed by other clubs, allowing them to join a new set of MLB teammates. This rule can be advantageous for teams dealing with unexpected injuries. Any club can claim a player on waivers.

Furthermore, if a player is on a minor league contract and hasn’t appeared on an MLB roster or injured list during the season, they can also be moved via trade.

For club general managers and their minor league department directors, creativity is key when attempting to acquire desired players. A prime example of this creativity occurred during the 1977 campaign with the New York Yankees.

In September 1977, the Yankees traded for Dave Kingman, a prolific home run hitter who had already played for three different clubs that season – including the California Angels. In just eight games with New York, Kingman made a significant impact, hitting four home runs and driving in seven runs in 24 at-bats.

Although Kingman was not eligible for postseason play with the Yankees, his performance down the stretch played a role in the team’s success. Ultimately, the Yankees went on to win the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The addition of impact players late in the MLB season, as showcased by Kingman joining the Yankees, often proves to be pivotal. Among the numerous trades that occurred this past week, one team that significantly strengthened themselves was the Los Angeles Dodgers. Infielder/Outfielder Tommy Edman came over from the St. Louis Cardinals, while pitcher Michael Kopech left the Chicago White Sox to join the Dodgers.

Amed Rosario transitioned from the Tampa Bay Rays to become a Dodger, and the Toronto Blue Jays’ Gold Glove center fielder Kevin Kiermaier bid farewell to his former teammates as he headed to sunny California. Jack Flaherty, one of the most coveted pitchers before the trade deadline, left Detroit and caught a flight to San Diego to join his new Dodgers teammates on the road.

During the regular season, MLB club rosters are fixed at 26 players. However, come September, clubs can expand their rosters to include 28 players, allowing for two call-ups from the minor leagues. Previously, clubs were allowed to have up to 40 players in their dugouts. Additionally, teams can carry 14 pitchers in September. These fresh and promising prospects, if called up, can potentially make the difference with their batting skills or augment the pitching staff and prove crucial in winning crucial games down the stretch.

As the famous adage goes, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” MLB executives are often driven to acquire the necessary talent they believe will provide an advantage to their team. Keep a close eye on the calendar, as August and September promise to be just as riveting as July, albeit with a different twist.