MLB Trade Deadline Targets

My, how fast the MLB regular season flies! It seemed like yesterday that we were starting off with Opening Day, only to be approaching Mid-July and the All-Star break. Which teams need an upgrade and who's available?

• Bryce Harper: I know what you're thinking: Why? I say, why not? Yes, Harper is playing at replacement level at best, sporting a .218 BA and the whole idea seems farfetched. Still, his OPS is a respectable .846 and his presence in any lineup can be imposing. Washington can also fetch a great return prospects-wise if they put Harper up.
  
• Manny Machado: One team that has stood out to me in the Manny Machado sweepstakes are the Los Angeles Dodgers. With Corey Seager out for the season, the Dodgers can improve at shortstop and make Chris Taylor their utilityman. Los Angeles does have the farm system to make this trade as well, which should work in their favor. Other teams to watch for include the Indians and the Diamondbacks.
  
• Jacob DeGrom: The Yankees could use some starting pitching and their cross-town rival could provide them with a boost. DeGrom (1.72 ERA, 142 SO) can fit in nicely in the Bronx and provide the Yankees with a good one-two combo in Severino-DeGrom.
  
• Cole Hamels: Hamels's previous three starts saw him last only 10.2 innings, allowing 14 earned runs in the process. His stock continues to plummet as his starts and his age are heading into questionable territory. Still, teams like Seattle and Milwaukee can use a left-handed pitcher like Hamels.
  
• Whit Merrifield: Merrifield (.303 BA, .371 OBP, .429 SLG) has quietly had a great season for lowly Kansas City. Merrifield can fetch a top prospect considering he's in his prime (Merrifield is 29 years old). Teams like Philadelphia and Milwaukee are said to be interested.
  
• Brad Hand: Relief pitching may not get as much fanfare as batters and starting pitchers do in the trade market. However, the bullpen is just as vital as any component of baseball. Hand (13.28 K/9, 1.09 WHIP, 3.05 ERA, 1.09 HR/9) can be a good set-up man for any team. The Cubs have shown some interest and teams like Boston and Houston can use someone like Hand.