The MLB trade deadline is passed, but teams can continue to make deals on waivers and James Shields could be traded, as the San Diego Padres have placed the pitcher on waivers and he has cleared and now he could be traded to any team and teams like the NY Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Baltimore Orioles and Angels could be interested in making a deal.
Shields signed a free agent deal in the offseason and the Padres have shopped him this year since the team has not contended as planned. The team did not trade Shields at the deadline and now ESPN reports that Shields has cleared revocable waivers and can be traded to any team. Buster Olney at ESPN reported the news and names teams like the Cubs and Yankees as potential options. The Yankees need another starter for the stretch with Michael Pineda out, while the Cubs were looking at deals at the deadline with the Padres, but instead traded for Dan Haren.
Shields is 33 and the Cubs were reportedly an option for him in the winter, as he previously played for Joe Maddon with the Rays. The Yankees likely do not want to spend the money, but they needed another pitcher at the deadline and did not get anyone major. The Padres have also placed Matt Kemp on waivers, according to SB Nation. According to Nick Cafardo at the Boston Globe, the Padres could still move players, as the team has placed Matt Kemp and James Shields on waivers.
Chase Utley could also be an option for teams, as the Phillies are also a team that could continue making deals with waivers. Utley has just returned from an injury and could be a target for teams with needs in the infield, including the Cubs, Yankees and Angels. The Dodgers have Howie Kendrick injured and they also could be an option. Utley is likely to get traded with the Phillies in rebuilding mode after trading Cole Hamels. SB Nation reports that the Giants also could be a fit for Utley, while the Angels and Cubs have also shown interest.
Check here for more on Shields clearing waivers and for teams interested in a deal.
Shields signed a free agent deal over the offseason and is still owed over $60 million on the next three years of his contract. The Cubs reportedly are interested in Utley, according to Hardball Talk, while the Angels and Giants also could be interested. The Giants have Joe Panik injured for the moment and could consider making a move. Shields comes in with an 8-4 record this season and a 3.75 ERA and he can eat innings for teams down the stretch and in the playoffs. Shields has 160 strikeouts this season in 146 innings.
