3 blockbuster trade targets for Dodgers after Walker Buehler injury

2. Shane Bieber

The Guardians have been a surprise in 2022, jumping out to a 29-27 record which is somehow good for second place in the AL Central (just 3.5 games back of the Twins). Cleveland conducting a sort of fire sale will also be dependent upon their performance through the end of July.

Shane Bieber is leading the way on the pitching staff with a 2.91 ERA, 2.64 FIP and 1.12 WHIP in his first 11 starts of the year. The former AL Cy Young winner is under club control through 2024 and is making just $6 million this season.

Do the Guardians have a realistic window within the next two seasons to make a run with Bieber atop the rotation? Probably not. And two of their top prospects — Daniel Espino and Gavin Williams — are starting pitchers making their way through the farm system.

Plus, Cleveland has Triston McKenzie to build around, as well as Cal Quantrill as a solid contributing piece. Assuming Bieber has no long-term future in Cleveland due to the exponential rise in starting pitcher salaries, the Guardians could get a lot of young talent in return to push ahead in a weak division over the next few years. The Dodgers have a ton of young pitching and middle infield talent to offer.

Bieber is far from a guarantee to be dealt, but if the Guardians fall off a bit and the Dodgers present an offer they can’t refuse, it wouldn’t at all be a surprise if this ends up happening.