If Bader and Thomas are not viewed as starters (above), that diminishes Baders’ D value and increases Thomas expected PH value, as bench players.
Just as an example, a Bader for JD Davis trade, helps solidify offensive production from 3B and adds a corner OF bat option. Financially not effecting the OF addition possibility, just shifting current OF depth towards 3B.
If an OF addition is made, with Carlson and Fowler as starters also, O’Neill, Bader and Thomas becomes redundant without even adding Edman to the mix. Of O’Neill, Bader and Thomas, Bader has the cash in now trade value, is what I’m getting at. It’s still a fringy starter / bench role transaction, but possibly in the right direction?