With the MLB trade deadline rapidly approaching, the Arizona Diamondbacks have been actively shopping outfielder Justin Upton for most of the month of July. But Fox Sports' MLB insider Jon Paul Morosi thinks that the D-backs may be looking to move more than just him, noting that closer J.J. Putz could be available as trade bait as well.
Per Jon Paul Morosi on Twitter:
Amid Justin Upton talk, don’t be surprised if #DBacks move a reliever, too. J.J. Putz allowed a .157 BA and .389 OPS in last 15 games.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 18, 2012
Putz ERA is still a bit high at 4.20, though his efforts as of late have helped quell his rocky start that included three blown saves. He's whittled his WHIP down to 1.17, allowed 28 hits in 30 innings pitched, and owns a 31/7 K/BB ratio. He certainly could provide some attention at the deadline, but whether he'll be moved is yet to be seen.
UPDATE (11:45 a.m PT): Putz is indeed not on the trading block, according to John Gambadoro on Twitter.
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