The case for trading Escobar
There’s no telling where the Minnesota Twins would be without the production from Escobar this season. Following the suspension of Jorge Polanco during Spring Training, Escobar was given his first real opportunity in the everyday lineup.
Escobar has become a fan favorite and that makes trading him more difficult. However, his performance through his first 50 games this season makes him a valuable trade chip for the Twins.
He’s hitting .272 with 10 home runs and 30 runs batted in during the 2018 season. Escobar has a .327 on-base percentage with 29 extra base hits. His .850 on-base plus slugging percentage trails only Eddie Rosario for best on the team.
That’s not even where Escobar is making his most impact. He has been flawless defensively during this season and has changed the perception of his defensive abilities.
He has committed zero errors during 290 1/3 innings played at third base so far this season. Escobar has been equally as impressive defensively at shortstop. He has also committed zero errors during his 159 2/3 innings at that position. That type of consistency is tough to find and makes Escobar extremely valuable on the trade market.
Although Escobar isn’t likely to bring back a major haul in a trade, he will bring back some quality prospects. He has shown that he can handle the two toughest positions on the infield defensively and there will be plenty of suitors calling for his services.
It’s always hard when trading a player like Escobar. By all accounts, he’s a tremendous clubhouse guy and his sense of humor helps keep this team loose. However, his value has never been as high as it is right now and Minnesota should take advantage. The Twins need to think about the next few seasons, not only the next four months, and that’s why trading Escobar makes sense.