SF Giants Trade Rumor Roundup: Justin Verlander, Paul DeJong, Alex Wood, more

The San Francisco Giants are in a strong position heading into the trade deadline, but they are running out of time to make the changes to the roster they need to. The division rival Dodgers are staying very aggressive and while the Diamondbacks haven't done much yet, it is a mortal lock that they make a move or two as well.

Here is the latest on the SF Giants trade rumors ahead of the trade deadline

The Giants need to make at least one upgrade in their starting rotation and they seem like they are still looking for help in the middle infield despite promoting Marco Luciano. Adding bullpen depth is always going to be on the table and if an impact bat becomes available at a reasonable price, there are several areas on the roster where upgrades would be welcome.

This time of year is where trade speculation runs wild and a large portion of it is just nonsense from writers filling time waiting for something to actually happen. However, there are rumors that are based in truth out there. To help cut through all the noise, here is the latest on the rumors surrounding the Giants in the days leading up to the trade deadline.

Justin Verlander

In the wake of the Rangers making a play for Max Scherzer, it is pretty clear that the Mets are open for business. Fortunately for the Giants, that could mean that Justin Verlander may be on the table at the deadline. There were rumors a week ago that the Giants were interested in Verlander despite how much money he is owed. He has also pitched much better lately which helps his cause. Verlander is under contract through at least 2024 which is not only going to up the cost in terms of prospects, but also could give the Mets pause given that they are likely to want to get back into contention quickly.

Paul DeJong

The St. Louis Cardinals have made it pretty clear that their pending free agents are going to be available at the trade deadline as is Paul DeJong who has a pair of club options in his contract for the next two seasons. That level of team control flexibility could be very appealing to San Francisco especially if DeJong plays well. His name is among the middle infielders the Giants have asked about ahead of the deadline.

Nicky Lopez

Another middle infielder that San Francisco has inquired about in recent days is the Royals' Nicky Lopez. Lopez would be cheaper both for the Giants' wallet as well as to acquire from Kansas City, However, his production has left something to be desired in 2023 as he is slashing just .210/.322/.280 this season. He did have a really nice season in 2021, though, and he is a strong defender.

Vaughn Grissom

The last infield option here is a spicy one as it would involve dealing with the best team in the National League, the Atlanta Braves, With Orlando Arcia entrenching himself at shortstop and Ozzie Albies not going anywhere, Grissom finds himself in purgatory with the Braves. Grissom can hit a bit for sure, but his glove has given him fits during his cameo appearances in the big leagues.

Alex Wood

There are also rumors about the players the Giants could trade away at the deadline and it seems like Alex Wood is at the top of the list. Wood has really struggled the last couple of years and his spot in the rotation is a prime candidate for an upgrade. It does seem like there is some interest in Wood around the league, although a clear candidate has yet to emerge.