Guardians' Carlos Santana gets bleak trade outlook amid struggles

Four days from the MLB trade deadline, the Cleveland Guardians aren't looking like they'll be having a busy trade deadline. Despite a plethora of interesting players, the trade deadline is shaping up to be a bleak one, whether it's as a buyer or seller.

But, for fan favorite first baseman Carlos Santana, his trade outlook doesn't look great. Not just from the standpoint of whether he's dealt or not, but rather, whether the Guardians could get anything back for the 39-year-old.

Zack Meisel of The Athletic highlighted Santana's situation and why the trade deadline might not be as fruitful for the Guardians as it previously seemed.

"Carlos Santana's punchless bat - and at 39 years old, that shouldn't be a shocking development - has sapped him of his value, at least at the plate." Meisel writes. "He remains a skilled defender, but teams aren't exactly lining up for a glove-first first baseman this time of year."

While Santana is a good defender, it doesn't help his value much. Teams looking to add a first baseman are typically doing so to improve their offensive output at the position. Santana, who's struggled this season, wouldn't help those offenses.

MORE: Guardians make trade deadline decision on 2.33 ERA reliever

In his 99 games this season, Santana has a .223 batting average and a .656 OPS. He has 77 hits, 43 runs scored, seven doubles, 11 home runs, 44 RBIs, 46 walks, and 77 strikeouts. 

Compared to one season ago, with the Minnesota Twins, Santana had a .748 OPS and hit 23 home runs with a .238 batting average. His offensive production compared to just one season ago has taken a huge dip.

With his lack of offensive production and age, Santana is unlikely to net much of a return for the Guardians. While Cleveland could still deal him to open the way for C.J. Kayfus to get the call to the big leagues, it won't be for much.

Amid Santana's struggles at the plate this season, the veteran slugger has reduced his trade value, so much so that he might not find a suitor at the deadline, especially if other first basemen, like Yandy Diaz, become available.

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