Trade Rumors: Interest Is Growing For Denorfia Before Deadline

The Padres’ have already traded Huston and Chase Headley, two of their key pieces, before this week’s trading deadline, but with injuries to both pitcher Ian Kennedy and outfielder Carlos Quentin, the team could have limited options before July 31st. However, outfielder Chris Denorfia is still expected to be moved by Thursday.

It is being reported by Chris Cotillo of SB Nation that Denorfia is drawing considerable interest from the San Francisco Giants, Toronto Blue Jays, and Seattle Mariners.

Both the Giants and Blue Jays have long been rumored to be interested in Denorfia, but with Seattle still only two games back for one of the two wildcard spots, they are looking to add an extra bat off the bench and utility outfielder.

Last week, it was rumored the Royals were looking at Denforia, but it will all depend if Kansas City is able to pull off a deal to acquire either Alex Rios or Marlon Byrd. Both will require the Royals to give up top prospects in return for the outfielders.

Like the majority of the Padres’ this season, Denorfia has struggled batting .244 with one home run and 16 RBI, but his plate presence with two strikes and defense makes him a useful player off the bench in late game situations.

The Padres’ are not expected to receive a lot in return for the 34-year old, so he could become a valuable addition to a team making a run in September.

Denorfia is in the final year of his contract and is a free agent at the end of the year. Quentin’s injury and no-trade clause limits the Padres from moving him and Kennedy’s injury could scare off buyers.