Trade of Justin Upton seems more likely, say other GMs

With MLB's Winter Meetings taking place in Nashville this week, Arizona Diamondbacks right fielder Justin Upton is one of the hottest potential candidates for a trade. General managers around baseball seem to think Arizona's Kevin Towers will make a deal for two-time All-Star, according to ESPN's Buster Olney:

Some rival officials remain convinced that eventually, GM Kevin Towers will trade Justin Upton, whose contract -- $38.5 million owed over the next three years -- might make him more attractive during a winter in which B.J. Upton got $75 million and Michael Bourn could be looking for $100 million. But Arizona wants a frontline shortstop in any Upton trade.

Upton's situation is fluid, as rumors of possible new suitors and deals crop up often. The latest have the Diamondbacks and the Texas Rangers discussing a possible Upton trade. The problem for Texas is what Arizona wants in return for the right fielder. The Rangers have a top-flight short stop in Elvis Andrus, but with concerns over Jurickson Profar, who left play in the Dominican League with an injury, the Rangers might not be so quick to make a deal.

Last season with Arizona, Upton hit .280/.355/.430 with 17 home runs and 67 RBIs. He totaled 55 extra base hits and stole 18 bases.