Blue Jays Trade Deadline: One target from EVERY non-contending team to pursue

NL Central trade targets

There doesn't seem to be a single National League Central team that is an absolute lock to make the 2023 postseason. The Reds and Brewers are both one losing streak away from seeing their playoff hopes dwindle, while the Pirates, Cubs and Cardinals all seem to be one winning streak away from suddenly being back in the thick of things. However, the latter three feel destined to stay in the cellar, so there are likely going to be quite a few assets moved in the next month or so.

• Pittsburgh Pirates - Rich Hill

Gosh, this would be such a fun acquisition. Somehow, someway, 43-year-old Rich Hill is still kicking and has been right around a league-average pitcher this season. The 19-year veteran has been surprisingly durable in recent years and continues to be an effective innings eater, which is something the Blue Jays could very much use. Hill is on an expiring contract and would likely cost next to nothing to acquire, so he may be worth a look. In 16 starts this season, the southpaw is 7-7 with a 4.45 ERA, 4.26 FIP and 99 ERA+.

• Chicago Cubs - Marcus Stroman

While Cody Bellinger would be one heck of a get for Ross Atkins and Co., the Cubs appear to be inching closer and closer to dealing Stroman despite the fact that he has expressed an interest in re-signing with the club. The ex-Blue Jays hurler is in the midst of an incredible second year in Chicago, as he has a 2.47 ERA and 178 ERA+ through 17 starts and 102 innings. It's easy for Jays fans to say that they don't want him on their team, but if the proper circumstances come together, there's a legitimate shot that we see him return to where it all began, even if it's just as a rental piece.

• St. Louis Cardinals - Jordan Montgomery

Seeing if the Cardinals are going to stand pat or become soft "sellers" is going to be one of the more interesting storylines to watch as the deadline moves closer. With a ton of tradeable assets that could all net strong returns, one player to watch is starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery. The 30-year-old southpaw is on an expiring contract and has been money for the Cardinals since his acquisition at last year's deadline. In 16 starts this season, he is 5-7 with a 3.52 ERA, 3.51 FIP and 122 ERA+. He continues to limit the longball with the best of them and would be a huge boost to the Blue Jays' starting rotation.