Heading into deadline season, the Royals’ stance as sellers was obvious — painfully so, for Kansas City faithful. Confirmation of that fact was hardly needed, but the Royals’ early trade of Aroldis Chapman to the Rangers cemented their already obvious status. The widespread expectation is that closer Scott Barlow will be marketed to other clubs over the next couple weeks, and even in something of a down season (by his high standards), his track record and affordable price tag should place him in demand.

The Royals aren’t exactly deep in straightforward trade candidates elsewhere on the roster. Zack Greinke is on the injured list at the moment and seems content to wind down his career in the place where it all began. Offseason signees Jordan Lyles and Ryan Yarbrough haven’t performed well. Last year’s breakout starter, Brady Singer, has regressed significantly. Infielder Nicky Lopez could change hands but would be viewed as a light-hitting utilityman by most contending clubs. He’s not likely to fetch a big return. Royals GM J.J. Picollo has made clear he has no intention of trading Salvador Perez, and Perez has full no-trade rights anyway. Kansas City just released Amir Garrett, who might’ve been an appealing rental trade candidate were it not for a sky-high 17.9% walk rate.

There’s at least one other reliever in the Royals’ bullpen who deserves some attention, however, even if he’s far from a household name. After three seasons floundering while bouncing between the rotation and bullpen, right-hander Carlos Hernandez has stepped up as a setup man to Barlow (now that Chapman’s been traded anyway) and looks the part of an impact late-inning arm.