8 starting pitchers the Blue Jays should target at the trade deadline

Alex Cobb

Looking for a grizzled veteran whose pitching at a level belying his years and won't cost too much to add to the payroll? Then Alex Cobb is your man.

For a start, Cobb's 2.91 ERA is on course to be his best since 2014. He has a tremendous 3.04 FIP. along with a realistic shot to set single-season bests for home runs allowed per nine innings and ERA+.

The 35-year-old has admittedly battled injury issues throughout his Major League career. However, he did have 28 starts last season - the second-most of his career -- and only missed minimal time this year with a left oblique strain.

Another concern is that Cobb gives up more hits that you'd like, in part due to often not mixing his pitches up enough. He must be doing something right though overall, to be projected for an ERA below 4.00 for a third consecutive season.

As alluded to earlier, a contract worth $9 million for this year won't be a back-breaker for the Blue Jays. What will be a challenge though is convincing the Giants to trade Cobb, especially as they have control with a club option for next season.

In addition, the Giants are currently well-placed in the wild card race and are in touching distance of the lead in the NL West. You would imagine they want to retain a quality starter, so mark the righty down as a long-shot for the Blue Jays.