Top 10 Chicago Cubs trade candidates, ranked

Chicago Cubs Trade Candidates: #6 – Joc Pederson

UPDATE: Joc Pederson was traded to the Atlanta Braves on July 15 in exchange for first base prospect Bryce Ball.

Brought in to replace Kyle Schwarber in left field, Joc Pederson has been pretty much what we all expected to this point. On the year, the longtime Dodgers outfielder is batting .230/.299/.415, good for a 103 OPS+.

That falls a bit short of his career numbers, but all in all, he’s been a solid presence for Chicago – or, at least, as solid as anyone else not named Kris Bryant. Pederson ranks in the 84th percentile in average exit velocity and 81st in hard hit rate, further evidence of his ability to change a game and carry an offense.

Based on his defensive metrics, which are far less favorable, an American League team might best suit the 29-year-old at this point, giving him the opportunity to DH. On a one-year, $7 million deal with a mutual option for next season, there aren’t many teams that wouldn’t be able to afford his services, a further boost to the Cubs’ chances of trading him.

Teams always want a power bat at the deadline, especially if they feel they’re just one guy away from taking that next step. Pederson fits that profile and has postseason experience (and a World Series ring, to boot) – so don’t be surprised if you see him on the move this month.