Hence, Lugo’s name has come up in trade rumors. And his ascending value continues to skyrocket with each start. Lugo has allowed five earned runs, total, in his last six starts. He was named Royals pitcher of the month for June after posting a 1.26 ERA and a 27.4% strikeout rate.

With his Kansas City Royals desperately needing a win, Lugo threw 6 1/3 innings of one-run ball in a 3-2 win over the Seattle Mariners, the team holding the American League's final Wild Card spot at the moment. Lugo now owns a 2.65 ERA, but the 41-47 Royals are still 4 1/2 games out of the playoffs.

In a market hungry for pitching talent, the Royals have an impact veteran to shop. Will they actually deal him? Vote now in MLBTR's latest poll!