Milwaukee Brewers: Is Corey Ray the Most Valuable Trade Chip?

With the July 31st trade deadline only eight days away, the Milwaukee Brewers are showing they need to make a few additions. In possession of one of the leagues strongest farm systems, who could the Brewers deal to maximize their return?

We all know that the Milwaukee Brewers have labeled some prospects close to untouchable. Keston Hiura fits that description, unless a substantial return was headed back to Milwaukee.

When looking at what the Brewers need in order to make a playoff run, the needs for pitching and infield help are clear. However, there is one prospect that could entice any team to give up one of their top talents.

Which Brewers prospect has flown under the radar?

Last season, Milwaukee Brewers prospect Corey Ray battled a serious knee injury that held back his true potential. Some started to put the “bust” label on the University of Louisville slugger. He slashed .238/.311/.367 and hit seven home runs last year in 112 games with the Carolina Mudcats. He was clearly hampered by the knee issue.

After undergoing a surgery to repair his knee, Ray is having one heck of a season down in Double-A. The left-handed outfielder with five-tool potential is showing why he is currently one of the Milwaukee Brewers top prospects.

Currently, he is slashing .255/.348/.496 in 95 games so far this year. His power production has returned as he has belted 18 home runs and driven in 54 runs.

He is currently the ranked sixth in the Milwaukee Brewers top 30 prospects.

If the Brewers are looking to make a deal for a difference maker perhaps they can have teams focus their attention on Ray.

Why would Milwaukee trade Ray?

Well, he is currently blocked thanks to the acquisitions of Christian Yelich and Lorenzo Cain.  Throw Brett Phillips into the mix, and you can forget about any playing time for Ray.

Next: What would a trade for Chris Archer look like?

Ray is already 23 years old and will turn 24 in September. It would be in the best interest of both the Brewers and Ray if they were to part ways. Ray needs to find a team that offer playing time at the Major League level in the next year or so.  Dealing Ray would fetch the Brewers a nice return if he were to headline any deal thanks to his stellar 2018 season.