Seattle Mariners Rumors: 3 Teams Eyeing Trade For Starting Pitcher

The Seattle Mariners have a deep and talented starting rotation, which has made Chris Flexen an attractive trade piece. Despite posting solid numbers in his time with the Mariners, Flexen has found himself expendable due to the team's pitching depth.

As a result, the Mariners have been actively shopping him around to other teams, with several expressing interest, however, now that Robbie Ray is done for the season, the Mariners will have to evaluate their pitching depth.

Still, here are three teams who have expressed interest in trading for the right-handed pitcher:

St. Louis Cardinals

One of the most notable suitors for Flexen is the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals have been in the market for starting pitching, and Flexen could be a viable option for them. He has proven to be a reliable starter in the past, and his low cost could make him an appealing target for a Cardinals team looking to add depth to their rotation.

With Adam Wainwright and Jack Flaherty frequent visitors to the injured list, it wouldn't hurt to add Flexen to the team, as he could also take struggling Steven Matz's spot in the rotation.

Baltimore Orioles

Another team reportedly interested in Flexen is the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles are in the midst of a rebuild and could use a pitcher like Flexen to help bolster their rotation. Flexen's ability to pitch deep into games and limit walks and home runs could be especially valuable to the Orioles, who need reliable arms to eat innings.

With Dean Kremer and Cole Irvin struggling, Flexen could slot into the rotation or even just make some spot starts.

Philadelphia Phillies

Finally, the Philadelphia Phillies have also been linked to Flexen in recent reports. While the Phillies have been in the market for a veteran pitcher, Flexen could be a more cost-effective solution to their starting pitching needs. His ability to limit hard contact and pitch deep into games could make him an attractive target for a Phillies team that needs reliable arms in their rotation.

Overall, it seems that Flexen's availability on the trade market is a testament to the Mariners' depth at the pitching position, and it will be interesting to see which team ultimately lands him for the upcoming season.

Regardless of where he ends up, his affordable contract and past success make him an attractive option for teams in need of a reliable back-of-the-rotation starter. Photo Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports