Dodgers Rumors: Ranking the four pitchers most likely to be traded for

3. Jason Vargas, Kansas City Royals

The native of Apple Valley, California has enjoyed quite a season over in Kansas City. Vargas has had a career resurgence after pitching in only 12.0 innings last season. On pace to be an All-Star, this would be Vargas’ first appearance after pitching in the league since 2005. While he has been a huge bright spot in Kansas City, we still may see Vargas dealt before the deadline.

The Kansas City Royals have seemingly surprised everybody and surged right back into playoff contention. Kansas City entered the month of June with a 22-30 record, good enough for the worst in the AL. The Royals then put together a 17-9 record in the month of June, good enough for the second best in the MLB only behind the Dodgers.

Now, Kansas City is only three games behind the defending AL Champion Cleveland Indians for first place in the AL Central. If this rise to the top continues, there is almost no chance that Kansas City would deal Vargas. Vargas has hands down been their best pitcher, leading them to this great surge.

If they continue to play well the Royals will certainly turn into buyers, not sellers. This will effectively eliminate any chance the Dodgers have for Vargas.

However, if the Royals fall back down to earth, Vargas would likely be the first player to go. Vargas’ trade value has skyrocketed this season, which would give the Royals a much better return on their investment. With a 12-3 record and 2.22 ERA, it is more than worth it.