Royals' All-Star lefty with 3.97 ERA headlines six Kansas City trade candidates

With the Royals off to such a terrible start to the 2026 season, it would not be a surprise if the trade deadline rolled around and they were sellers.

Bubic, the lefty who has a 3.97 ERA this season, following his All-Star 2.55 ERA last year, is likely the top trade candidate. Starting pitchers are incredibly valuable in trade talks, and Bubic, a lefty All-Star, would be a great rental for a contender.

Strahm and Schreiber are two others to watch, as relievers typically receive significant interest at the trade deadline.

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India would be a worthy trade candidate as well, as it could fetch a decent return for a team in need of a solid all-around infielder.

Marte and Thomas are more depth options, but such players do get dealt every year, and the Royals would surely have a few chances to trade one of those outfielders.

Overall, all six of these trade candidates noted by Schoenfield are in the last years of their deals and would bring back some value. 2026 is off to a brutal start, and if things don't get better, getting some value out of these outgoing free agents makes sense.

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