Which teams make sense as an Eric Hosmer trade destination?

One of the most surprising names in the rumor mill this time of year is San Diego first baseman Eric Hosmer. He’s been a mainstay for the Padres since signing with them before the 2018 season. But with Hosmer having a subpar offensive season and the Padres’ trade for Adam Frazier earlier this week, there are now Eric Hosmer trade rumors buzzing around baseball.

Of course, trading Hosmer won’t be easy. He’s set to make $59 million between 2022 and 2025 and appears to be declining. San Diego would likely have to pay some of that money and include a prospect to get a team to take Hosmer. However, there have been discussions about potential Hosmer trades happening before the deadline.

Eric Hosmer trade rumors 2021

The other obstacle for a Hosmer trade is his no-trade clause.

There is a list of 10 teams that the Padres can’t trade Hosmer to without his permission. Of those 10 teams, most are contending teams, including the Athletics, Blue Jays, Brewers, Cardinals, Mariners, and Giants. With that in mind, here are some of the teams that could possibly be interested in trading for Hosmer.

Cubs

The Cubs aren’t buyers at the deadline, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be interested in Hosmer. Anthony Rizzo is a free agent this winter who the Cubs could easily flip before the trade deadline if they wanted.

That could open the door to trade for Hosmer, who could give Chicago some stability while they try to reload in 2022 or go through a rebuilding phase.

Twins

The Twins are another team that could look at Hosmer as a long-term piece if the Padres pay some of his remaining salary.

After trading Nelson Cruz, Minnesota could move Miguel Sano to the DH role permanently while putting Hosmer at first base. Unless the Twins tear it all down and go wild at the deadline, they will likely try to reload and compete in 2022, perhaps making Hosmer a part of that effort.

Royals

Keep in mind that Hosmer came up with the Royals and won a World Series with Kansas City. It’s also noteworthy that the Royals are not on Hosmer’s no-trade list. If San Diego chips in part of his salary, the Royals would surely welcome back Hosmer as a veteran presence for the next four years as they approach the end of their rebuilding phase.

Kansas City is yet to find a long-term solution at first base. They could push Carlos Santana to DH for the final year of his contract in 2022 and get back to the days of Hosmer as the team’s first baseman.

Red Sox

This seems like a long shot because Hosmer has so long left on his contract. But Bobby Dalbec hasn’t done enough to impress as Boston’s primary first baseman this year.

The Red Sox could look at Hosmer as a short-term answer while they go for it in 2021 and then look to trade him elsewhere this winter.

Yankees

Unfortunately, Luke Voit just can’t seem to stay healthy. The Yankees have had to play DJ LeMahieu at first base this year a lot more than they would like.

That could inspire them to trade for Hosmer so that they would have a full-time first baseman regardless of Voit’s health. A potential Hosmer-Voit platoon could be a long-term answer at first base beyond this year. Plus, as a left-handed hitter at Yankee Stadium, Hosmer could see a boost in his power numbers and productivity if he were to wear pinstripes. 

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