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Possible replacements for 3 key injured players

Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Every year, there are contending teams who see key players go down with injury, and this season is no different. Often, these holes can prove simply impossible to fill - but that won't stop teams from trying. With several stars on contending clubs going down in the past few weeks, the rumor mills have been working overtime as general managers scan the market for a quick fix to keep their teams going.

Here are three possible injury replacements for three key injured players:

Sonny Gray to replace Clayton Kershaw

For the record, nobody can really "replace" Kershaw (except maybe Chris Sale, who's unlikely to move). Gray, however, is a big enough name for the star-loving Dodgers to pursue as a short-term fix with potential long-term bonuses. Though Gray's struggled in Oakland this year, he'll still take a lot to pry away from Billy Beane thanks to years of team control remaining. A package beginning with youngsters Jose De Leon and Trayce Thompson for Gray and perhaps outfielder Josh Reddick might start the conversation.

Carlos Beltran to replace Michael Brantley

With Brantley having yet another setback on his injured shoulder this week, it's time for the first-place Indians to chase another outfielder, and Beltran is the perfect fit. The 39-year-old has turned back the clock with his bat, and his lengthy list of October heroics need no explanation. His outfield defense has declined considerably, and with few internal options aside from utility man Jose Ramirez, they'd likely have to add a defensive replacement-type piece, but those players are easily available in the August waiver period.

Danny Valencia to replace Prince Fielder

Fielder's season has been dismal at best, but the recurrence of his neck injury still sent the Rangers into scramble mode. Valencia's not as sexy as some of the other names, but he's been mashing the ball in Oakland during his career season, and can provide more than just filler at first base and/or DH as a natural third baseman who can also moonlight in the outfield. As a lefty masher he'd also provide the perfect complement for Mitch Moreland, and even the injury-prone Shin Soo Choo. Most importantly though, Valencia wouldn't cost a lot to acquire, meaning Texas could hold onto Joey Gallo and, if he's not dealt in another bigger trade, use him as another potential replacement.

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