Report: D-backs would consider trading Justin Upton

Justin Upton has gone from All-Star to disappointment in
the span of one season, as the 2011 NL MVP candidate has
struggled mightily in 2012.

Raised expectations from one year ago — for both Upton
and the Arizona Diamondbacks — have left fans upset this
season, with right fielder bearing the brunt of those who
voice their displeasure at games.

Recently the subject of boos, Upton may
soon become the subject of trade rumors.

According to Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul
Morosi of FoxSports.com, a D-backs fall from
contention could provoke them to explore trading anyone on
the roster, including Upton.

He has struggled this season and recently was booed at
home after finishing fourth in the National League MVP
voting a year ago. But he is only 24, and would be
attractive to both contenders and non-contenders because
he is signed at affordable salaries through 2015.

That long-term control would enable the Diamondbacks to
ask for a monster package for Upton, who Towers previously
discussed in trades shortly after becoming the team’s GM
in Sept. 2010.

Upton is hitting just .267 this year with seven home runs
and 36 RBI, and has really epitomized the team’s season.
There are times when he appears ready to break out of his
slump, but soon after begins to struggle again.

However, he’s just 24-years-old and already been to a pair
of All-Star games, and is still regarded by many as one of
the best young talents in the game.

The article speculates notes the Indians, Pirates and
Yankees as options, though there would undoubtedly be more
candidates should Upton become available.

Follow @theAdamGreen