AL West: Sonny Gray a closer?

A little over a month out from the trade deadline and we have our very first ~ * mystery team * ~. We know two things: they’re a team in the National League and they want Sonny Gray to be their closer.

The 27-year old currently has a 4.84 ERA and has had a very turbulent season. Dropping him in the bullpen and seeing how he does in more compact outing is an appealing idea. After all, Gray’s fastball is still strong and he has 58 strikeouts so far this season. However, he’s currently highly sought after by the Astros to fill the role of a starter, so unless this mystery team emerges from the shadows and makes Oakland an offer they can’t refuse, Gray will probably be clear of the bullpen for now.

Let the wild speculation begin. Gray was hurt last year, so my guess is the Mets are after him since they’re drawn to that and such.

Here’s what other news is going down in the American League West:

• The Angels have called up RHP Eduardo Paredes.
• Is Andrew Moore ready to come to the show for the Mariners?
• The good news: Cole Hamels may start Monday. The bad news: Martin Perez may miss next start.
• What in the world is wrong with Ramon Laureano?
• The Oakland A’s (somewhat heartbreakingly) DFA Stephen Vogt and place Matt Chapman on the DL.
• So apparently, Mike Trout wants to be an Angel for life but Arte Moreno said “No” and created shock waves of nightmares throughout a good chunk of California.
• Here’s all you could ever want to know about Mariners’ first round draft pick, Evan White.
• Hanser Alberto is done for the season with shoulder surgery.
• Should the Angels trade Cameron Maybin?
• Astros’ George Springer’s x-rays have come back negative, so breathe a sign of relief everyone.
• Jharel Cotton’s is struggling with control and command.