BSN’s MLB Trade Deadline LIVE Tracker – Deadline Season Has Officially Arrived
The Red Sox and Nationals have officially kicked off the MLB Trade Deadline by swapping LHP Connelly Early and INF Curtis Mead in a one-for-one player swap. Which means only one thing, this tracker is officially in full swing. Make sure you stay tuned in the next few days so you don’t miss a thing.
In this tracker, you will find a number of different things. A buyers and sellers list, a trade tracker, and your one stop shop in all things MLB Trade Deadline rumors. We will update you with the latest news around the league until the deadline is complete. Will we see the Tigers move on from Skubal? Are the Mets lining up to send away a big name? Will the Giants move on from Devers? These are all answers that are likely set to become clearer as the days go on, but no matter what, it’s deadline season and we’re happy you have chosen Bear Sports News to enjoy the craziness that is the MLB Trade Deadline.
Bookmark this article, and save it for future reference as this will be updated consistently throughout the day and coming weeks.
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MLB Trade Deadline
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING? THE BEARS MADE IT EASY TO FIND!
One Player At Each Position That BSN Would Trade For
Rumors are the biggest part of the trade deadline now, it’s why you’re here in the first place. Today’s special feature is going to be a fun one. While we’ve heard a few of the names i will mention down below in rumors, some are less likely to be moved. Nevertheless, let’s break down the best player from each position. While most of these may be a surprise, we are looking at a wide number of variables. Whether a certain team will eat the salary to move a player, years left on a contract, and how much they are owed. It’s got a mix of everything in here, so strap in, relax, and let’s build the perfect trade deadline rumor mill team.
SP: Luis Castillo RHP – Seattle Mariners / owed 30.4m thru 2027 (Mariners willing to eat a portion of Castillo’s salary for a ‘legitimate return.’)
The Mariners have made it clear that they plan to keep most of their pitching rotation in tact after this deadline. They have let teams know that they are willing to part ways with Emerson Hancock and Luis Castillo though. While Castillo carries a 4+ ERA this season, the Mariners are willing to eat some of his salary for a decent return. His contract also expires at the end of the 2027 campaign, meaning he has an extra year compared to a rental pitcher. While Tarik Skubal or Robbie Ray definitely crossed my mind [CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING]
MLB Owners Fear Year-Long Lockout; Are Rentals More Valuable Than Ever Before?
Jeff Passan mentioned today that some owners around the league have told their GM’s to factor that a game could possibly not be played next season. This is specifically regarding taking longer-term deals, and possibly losing a year of that due to the possible year-long lockout that most people within MLB fear. While rentals have always been a hot topic around deadline season, it’s becoming evident that players on expiring contracts, will be far more valuable than before.
Yankees Bellinger Out For 4-6 Weeks; Does This Change Their Outlook Towards the Deadline?
The Yankees front office is likely changing their trade deadline plans as you read this article. Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced before the Yankees critical matchup against the White Sox that Bellinger would miss approximately 4-6 weeks with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. This is a devastating blow to the Yankees who are already without Aaron Judge till September. Now they are likely without Bellinger till then as well.
It’s likely that the Yankees will pivot their main needs towards adding an outfielder that can help carry them into September now. They still have aspirations in adding a catcher, and a high-leverage reliever.
Premium Price for the Right Deal? Rays Are All-In This MLB Trade Deadline
The Rays are probably in the league’s most interesting position this deadline. They have tons of prospect trade chips that they can move, and still be competitive. In a market where the buyers and outweighing the potential sellers, this will be critical in paying for the best deal. Today, we have gotten a clearer picture at that that is. The Rays know that the AL is wide-open this year, that’s no question. They have a 7 game lead over the 2nd place White Sox and a 3 game lead in their own division over the Yankees.
Everyone around the league knows that the Yankees are going to swing big this deadline, but the Rays will need to swing harder. They have aspirations in adding a starting pitcher. Reports have linked them to SP Tarik Skubal, and with reports from Robert Murray [subscription required] coming in today reporting that Skubal is likely a goner.
Knowing that the Rays are all-in, they are the most likely candidate to land Skubal. They had interest in 2B Ketel Marte as well earlier in July, but with reports from Bob Nightengale. They have pivoted towards 2B Luis Arraez from the Giants. Ketel Marte currently falls under 10-5 rules, and would need to accept a trade. Nightengale reports that Marte would veto any incoming trade that includes him. Reports have also linked the Rays to C Ryan Jeffers and C Hunter Goodman from the Twins and Rockies. All though it’s likely that the Rays pivot towards adding C Ryan Jeffers over C Hunter Goodman. While you can’t deny his 30 HR power, his defense is something that teams have noticed. They aren’t willing to pay the Rockies asking price of ‘players that can help us reach 90-wins quicker than Goodman himself.’ While the Rays are approaching the deadline with an all-in type of attitude, they aren’t willing to overpay. No matter what happens though, the Rays have a strong possibility to put all the right pieces on the field for October. It will just be about staying healthy, and performing up until then. The Rays know how important that Wild Card bye is, and hope to be watching it from home, preparing for the ALCS.
Mets Pitcher Freddy Peralta Addresses Trade Rumors
If you asked SP Freddy Peralta how this season has gone for him, he’d be brutally honest. Before the season began, everyone within an executive position believed he’d be in line for a minimum 6yr/200m+ deal; considering he performed to the standards he had been pitching previous seasons. Today, Peralta’s ERA is 2 runs higher than he finished last season with the Brewers. He will likely need to sign a one-year deal with a team to help get his market value back to where he’d like it.
After the game, Peralta was asked about the possibility of Sunday’s start being his last for the Mets. He knows that ‘it probably is.’
“If it happens, it happens. I’m thankful and grateful to be part of this organization. I know so far I’ve let them down. I haven’t done what I was supposed to do.”
Despite not seeing a quality start since June 3rd, Peralta’s interest remains high around the league. He also believes that his fastball on Sunday was the best it’s been and will continue to build on that. No matter where Peralta goes, his contract is up at the end of this season. I don’t see any scenario where the Mets re-sign him, so it’s better for Steve Cohen and the Mets to sell and get back whatever they bought for him.
Has the Marlins 12-Game Losing Streak Turned Miami Into Buyers?
The Marlins previous two months within the MLB has been a rollercoaster to say the least. At one point, the Marlins were the hottest topic going into the deadline. They hadn’t lost a series in over 3 weeks and despite losing three straight to the Guardians before the All-Star break. Most insiders had this Miami team as full-blown buyers.
To fully understand the Marlins situation though, we have to take you all back to June 1st, where this story really starts off in my opinion. Despite only being 61 games into the season, everyone had started writing off the Marlins, and for good reason. They were 27-34 and anyone who had written an early trade candidates article, likely had SP Sandy Alcantara on there. Then out of nowhere, the Marlins started playing incredible baseball, actually some of the best in the league. They won their series against the Nationals, Rays, D-backs, and Pirates to begin their month of June. An incredible hot streak, where before their Phillies series, they had completely turned their season around. They were finally at .500 baseball, a point where teams consider it a success. They did end up dropping that series to the Phillies, but that didn’t kill the momentum. They won a handful of their next series, sweeping the Giants, beating the Rangers, as well as the Cardinals, splitting with the Rockies. Then sweeping the Mariners and Athletics back to back.
That incredible stretch from June 1st-July 9th, completely changed their record from 27-34 to 52-42. Heading into the All-Star break, there was no doubt in anyone’s mind, including mine. That this team wouldn’t be buyers this deadline.
What goes up, must come down though, and for the Marlins, that was true. They haven’t won since July 9th, and their record stands at 52-54. They are 3.0 games back from a Wild Card spot and will be under multiple microscopes this week with the Phillies and Mets on the schedule this week. If the Marlins indeed trend towards sellers, it’s no question that they will be selling SP Sandy Alcantara. C Liam Hicks, and SP Eury Perez are also expected to garner some interest in the market.
White Sox Add Playoff Pitching Depth With Urquidy Trade
As Sunday Night Baseball blasted across TV’s across America, a trade that might go unnoticed by most, will probably be talked about come October. The White Sox completed a trade tonight that sends prospect LHP Felix Doroteo, who in the White Sox ACL affiliate league has pitched 18.0 innings, with 24 strikeouts and a 4.50 ERA. In Exchange, the White Sox received RHP José Urquidy.
Urquidy, whose last MLB game was on April 13th, has seen most of this season in Triple-A. Despite the change of scenery, he’s seeing very similar numbers to those he posted in 2021 and 2022. Through 17 games started, Urquidy has posted a 3.66 ERA with 73 strikeouts. Batters are batting a .227 against him, and has been working to get that WHIP below 1.00, (currently at 1.05.)
While the White Sox are definitely betting on José Urquidy to return to that 2022 form, they get something else within Urquidy. 15 appearances and 8 starts in the postseason. A 2.08 ERA in the Wild Card series and an incredible 1.23 ERA in the World Series. That’s something that the White Sox don’t exactly have on that roster currently.
You can bet on the White Sox making the postseason, that’s no question. One thing that everyone will mention though is playoff experience. If they can get Urquidy to 2022 form, and have him in the clubhouse during October. Well it’s time we all start talking about the White Sox making a serious run into October, but for now. We will wait and see if this trade pans out the way the White Sox need it too.
Red Sox and Nationals Swap Young Stars
Late during the night of July 25th, the Red Sox and Nationals completed the first major trade of the deadline period. Swapping two young stars with the Red Sox sending LHP Connelly Early to the Nationals, in exchange for infielder Curtis Mead. Both players are still under 25 years old and still have multiple years of team control. Early is slated to hit free agency in 2032, with Mead set to hit free agency in 2031. Both are still making less than 800k on their contracts so the risk for both sides is relatively low.
For the Red Sox, they get an infielder who can play mostly everywhere in the infield. Mead has gotten most of his time at first and third though, splitting his 93 games mostly between the two positions. Mead’s fielding percentage in both positions are just below league average, but the Red Sox hope to clean that up. Just before the season started, Mead was DFA’d by the White Sox and then eventually traded to the Nationals. After slashing .254/.352/.500 with a career-high 17 home runs, this was the right-handed bat that the Red Sox have been searching for. It came at the cost of a young pitcher with over five years of team control, and in a league where you can never have enough pitching. One question emerges for me with this trade, will this come back to hurt the Red Sox near postseason? Time will only tell, but the Red Sox are buying high on Mead to be the answer.
For the Nationals, they’ve been desperate to add to the pitching room. By adding Early, they start to further solidify their name into the buyers category this deadline. They are only a singular game out of Wild Card contention and will be looking to add more big-league talent. Early through 91.2 innings pitched has a 3.44 ERA, with 35 earned runs, 93 strikeouts and 34 walks.
Mets Hold The Trade Deadline Keys; Will They Come Out As Winners?
The Mets could very well come out of this deadline as winners despite selling off their MLB assets. As we approach closer and closer to that August 3rd date, we have started to become more aware of who’s available from the Mets. That list includes expiring contracts and some contracts that have a few more years of control. The most enticing player out of all of them has to be SP Clay Holmes. Before his injury, he was pitching lights out, and possibly had a chance to put his name in the mix for NL Cy Young.
Another name that the Mets have started to receive interest on is Luis Robert Jr. who is returning from injury and doesn’t have an everyday spot open for him currently on the Mets. Currently Juan Soto, Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing all take the helm in the outfield, while Jorge Polanco handles the everyday DH role. The Mets don’t really wanna spend money they don’t have to this deadline, but with Robert being owed around 8m, including his buy-out. The Mets will likely have to eat some of that salary in order to make the trade viable for teams.
Overnight News – What You’ve Missed + What’s On Our Radar – 7/22/26
- The Phillies will reportedly attempt to be as active this deadline as ever before. With a mid-level prospect farm system, Philadelphia’s president of baseball operations said “There is plenty of interest in players in our system.” The biggest needs of concern for the Phillies are a 5th starting pitcher, high-leverage reliever and a right-handed hitting outfielder.
- The Rays are reportedly ready to swing for the fences this deadline, despite losing four straight to the Red Sox. “I think the biggest surprise will be Tampa buying big” one rival executive told The Athletic. “They’re everywhere scouting.”
- The Nationals are moving closer and closer to possibly moving SP Foster Griffin this deadline. The team is still assessing the market and whether they wanna extend, or keep the starting pitcher past this season. The Nationals adding Griffin to a market that is currently lacking top pitchers. Could land Washington an incredible haul for Griffin’s first year in the MLB.
- Marlins will be watching these next few games closely as they are on the bubble as a Wild Card team. If they continue to lose games, don’t be surprised to see them move on from SP Sandy Alcantara, who has a 21m club option tied to his name after this season.
- The D-backs plan on buying this deadline but they continue to determine how to direct the team’s limited resources. The biggest needs for Arizona are a left handed hitting first baseman/DH type of player. With recent injuries to the rotation, they could opt for a starter or reliever.
- The Rockies are starting to emerge as the league’s one stop shop for the league. They are actively fielding calls on pitchers, Kyle Freeland, Michael Lorenzen, and Tomoyuki Sugano. As well as position players, Mickey Moniak, Jake McCarthy, and Willi Castro. Included in those conversations are reliever Antonio Senzatela, whose contract expires at the end of this season.
- While an extension could still be signed, the Mets are actively shopping SP Clay Holmes and has a greater chance of being traded.
- White Sox are officially all in and look to add a top-of-the-rotation starter, closer, and possibly adding a right-handed center fielder.
- Padres are torn between selling and buying and could do a little of both. It’s likely trending though that the Padres will certainly be buyers.
- If Padres were to trade Mason Miller, they’d want at least two top-100 prospects in return.
Skubal Asking Price Officially Announced – Is It Time to Sell High?
As we approach closer and closer to that August 3rd date, the rumors are getting hotter than ever. As of the writing of this piece, the Tigers are currently 5.0 games back from a Wild Card spot. In our sellers and buyers article, we mentioned that the Tigers should sell high on Skubal to build for 2027 and beyond. Well, they must have read our piece because now, the Tigers are more open to the idea than ever. Ken Rosenthal reported this morning that if the Tigers were to trade Skubal, not only would they want a starter with multiple years of control. They also want some quality prospects thrown into that. Rosenthal mentioned a couple of names that could be moved in a trade for Skubal.
- Logan Henderson, Milwaukee Brewers
- Emmet Sheehan, Los Angeles Dodgers
- Andrew Painter, Philadelphia Phillies
- Ian Seymour, Tampa Bay Rays
- JR Ritchie or AJ Smith-Shawver, Atlanta Braves
- Will Warren or Ryan Weathers, New York Yankees
Evert Trade Tracked In One Place – Updated on July 26th, 9:43 PM ET
The MLB deadline will get intense and you may miss an article, or even a trade. Make sure you keep this link handy to track every MLB trade up until the end of the madness. Bookmark it, save it, print it, do whatever you need to do to track every trade.
July 26th:
White Sox receive: RHP José Urquidy
Pirates receive: RHP Felix Doroteo
July 25th:
Red Sox receive: INF Curtis Mead
Nationals receive: LHP Connelly Early
Royals receive: cash considerations
Phillies receive: OF Kameron Misner
July 23rd:
Pirates receive: RHP Ron Marinaccio
Padres receive: International bonus pool money
July 22nd:
Royals receive: RHP Nate Pearson
Astros receive: RHP Max Martin
BSN’s 1.0 MLB Trade Deadline; Sellers, In Between and Buyers
As we approach closer to the MLB Trade Deadline, the puzzle pieces start to put themselves in place easier for us to decode. If the Red Sox front office was still on the fence about buying this season, well i hope the 12 game winning streak is enough to make them outright buyers. While teams like the Blue Jays and Astros will be playing these next few games to determine their status this deadline. While we can bet that the Giants, Rockies and Angels will most certainly be sellers this deadline. Which will be interesting since the AL is wide open for taking. Twelve teams out of fifteen in the AL are less than 4.5 games back from a Wild Card spot. Meaning that if you’re going to swing at a potential player from a seller, then you better come with a good offer.
We will kick this off with our seller list and who will be available this deadline. If you’re wondering who is the best available this deadline, check out this article here. From our seller list, we will go to our in between teams, who will be playing for their lives this week. Then, last but not least, our buyers. Who will be buying this deadline and what will they be looking to add to help that final stretch before postseason.
NOTE: Records and passages were written before July 20th’s games.
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BSN’s Sellers List
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels will be one of the more interesting teams to watch this deadline. While ownership has been lackluster the past few years, a new GM will hopefully bring a new era to this team. A few weeks ago, the Angels replaced GM Perry Minansian and brought in John Mozeliak. Could Mozeliak be open to moving Trout for some prospects that will turn the Angels into a playoff team in the future? Moving a player like Zach Neto, who’s under team control till 2030 would certainly bring a huge haul as well. Until then, we will have to wait and see, but Mozeliak has said that one of his biggest goals are to find the things that the organization currently does well and where improvements need to be made. He’s still in the early stages of the transition and had his main focus on the MLB Draft but did imply that there could be some changes in the ways things are currently structured.
They also have starting pitchers like Jose Soriano and Reid Detmers to offer around the league. As well as outfielders Jo Adell and Jorge Soler and relief pitchers Ryan Zeferjahn or Kirby Yates. Adell isn’t a free agent till 2028, so that extra year of control could make him a top candidate for teams looking.
Kansas City Royals
Nothing has gone right for the Royals through the first 100 games of the season. They were playoff contenders in 2024, and now, over 13 games back in the AL Central. It’s obvious that the Royals wont be swinging at Skubal but they also wont be selling either. They would like to add a prospect that’s MLB ready or 2027 Opening Day ready, but they’d certainly have to move a controllable piece. A controllable piece that the Royals would like to have for their push to a 2027 World Series title.
The Royals do have players on expiring contracts this season that could help net that prospect. While Matt Strahm has had a difficult season, they could offer John Screiber. Outfielders Lane Thomas and Starling Marte are also on expiring contracts and could be traded away as ‘rental pieces’.
If the Royals are serious about building for 2027 and beyond, it’s time to move on from Michael Wacha. I know, the Royals fans reading this might click off now, but hear me out. This deadline is crucial in starting the rebuild the young and controllable talent that can help your team in 2027. A player like this isn’t gonna be acquired by offering Thomas or Marte respectfully.
Sacramento Athletics
When the season started, the A’s had playoff aspirations and were preparing as if the season would continue into October. Now they enter the final stretch of the season dropping 16 out of their last 20 games. Unfortunately, you can blame most of those losses on the heavily stacked injured list. Brent Rookie is out for the season, while Nick Kurtz, Zack Gelof, Denzel Clarke and Luis Severino still remain on the IL.
Lawrence Butler, Jeffrey Springs and Jacob Lopez have been underperforming well below their expectations set for the season. Unfortunately with the stacked injured list, it’s time to sell but moderately. Keep your mindset on building for 2027 and beyond, but i don’t see them being sellers like the Angels or the Mets.
Detroit Tigers
It’s time to put yourselves in the Tigers front office shoes for a second. You are only 4.5 games back from a Wild Card spot, with a 27.8% chance to make playoffs. As well as the fifth easiest schedule remaining in the MLB. This may seem like a team who’s in a prime position to buy, right? Well personally, i don’t see this team making it out of the Wild Card if that’s the case. The team currently ranks in the bottom half of runs scored, OPS, and AVG.
It’s time the Tigers take a step back and let the other teams shoot for a title. It’s time to take some phone calls and trade Skubal for the best possible package you can get. Any team who needs pitching help and is primed for a playoff run, will pay the price and possibly more. Now despite the Tigers trending towards being buyers and keeping Skubal, these next two weeks will be critical. If they see themselves further out of playoff contention, then trading Skubal will most certainly be the best option. Until then, the Tigers are keeping Skubal, but i consider them more of a seller then a in between team. Tigers fans may disagree, but if the team is serious about a push in 2027, then its time to sit back for that.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds won’t be outright sellers, but they are 100% interested in moving their expiring contracts. The Reds have Spencer Steer and JJ Bleday, whose contracts don’t expire till after 2027, but if they are able to hit to Reds asking price of MLB talent to help their 2027 roster. Don’t be surprised to see them moved, especially in a market that is lacking outfielders.
Cincinnati is interested in moving Eugenio Suarez, Nathaniel Lowe, Brady Singer, Tyler Stephenson and relief pitchers, Caleb Ferguson and Brock Burke.
New York Mets
Another team that every team will be calling this deadline, as everyone but Juan Soto, Nolan McLean, Christian Scott, A.J. Ewing and Carson Benge are available this deadline. No, i didn’t forget to mention Francisco Lindor, he is available in trade conversations.
Now, moving Lindor would be the blockbuster trades of all trades, but the asking price is high. It’d also take Lindor waving his 10-5 rights, similar to how a no-trade-clause works in the NBA and NFL. Lindor reportedly is very happy with the Mets, the city and is still owed over $160m through 2031. He is also statiscally having the worst season offensively and defensively of his career. Would trading for Lindor be a liability and not a move that would exactly win the deadline? It will be interesting to see, but regardless, look for the Mets to field calls on Luke Weaver, Freddy Peralta or even Luis Robert Jr.
San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants have one of my favorite players that will most certainly be dealt this deadline. He’s an infielder that can pretty much play anywhere you need him to, and since entering the league in 2019, he’s only had two seasons batting below .300. If you need a good, consistent bat in the top part of your lineup, look no further than Luis Arraez. As always, we can expect them to be willing to move on from their expiring contract players.
An interesting thing to note though is that the Giants are listening to offers on Rafael Devers, WIlly Adames and Matt Chapman. Currently, the Giants consider Logan Webb untouchable and will not be moving the pitching ace. The team will also be listening to offers on Jung Hoo Lee and Robbie Ray.
Colorado Rockies
Despite trending towards owning the worse record once again in the NL, the Rockies aren’t exactly going to be ready to trade everyone. They are still arms deep in a rebuild and quite frankly, shouldn’t move any of their young pieces. If they do consider moving rental pieces like Tomoyuki Sugano, which is probably the only piece that makes teams look twice. The Rockies pitching staff has been the worst of the whole league, so if they consider selling off some pieces. The main focus should be young MLB-ready pitching arms, or even some Double-A arms that need some more AB’s but can’t see as many.
Either way, the pieces the Rockies could consider moving, will be very much part of this rebuild in the future. I hope they sell lightly with intentions for building for a better future.
In-Between Teams – Who Needs to Perform This Week?
All of our four teams that will be under a microscope this week are the Astros, Blue Jays, Padres and Tigers. Coincidentally all three teams in the AL are 4.5 GB from a wild card spot. Which you may be thinking, can’t either of these teams make a surprising run a sneak into the playoffs? Yes, they 100%, can, the AL is wide open. There’s still pieces to the puzzle that are the Astros, Blue Jays, Tigers, and they need to figure out, if they wanna be World Series contenders now or in the future.
Detroit Tigers – 46-53 / 29.0% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 4.5 GB from Wild Card
The Tigers are in an interesting situation here, the pitching and defense have been exceptional this season, there’s no question about that. As of late, the bats have also found the spark that Tigers fans have been waiting for all season. It’s time for the Tigers front office to ask themselves one question though. Are the Tigers World Series contenders the way things stand currently? Well, unless a huge losing streak happens these next two weeks, then you can consider Skubal, a Tiger. They will be approaching the remainder of the season and this deadline, as ‘all-in’. The biggest need is going to be a veteran right-handed bat, and definitely pitching prospects to start filling the voids. It’s going to be an interesting remainder of the season for the Tigers regardless. Will keeping Skubal lead to a World Series title that Detroit fans have been waiting for since 1984? Or will this be another Ohtani situation where keeping an elite-expiring player puts them in a worse position? We will have to wait and see, but regardless, for the Tigers. It’s World Series or bust, and they have just pushed all their chips to the center of the table.
Houston Astros – 47-54 / 13.8% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 4.5 GB from Wild Card
After the Astros traded away Lance McCullers Jr to the Brewers, the lone remaining members of the 2017 World Series team are Carlos Correa and Jose Altuve. Since then, Altuve has been to eight postseasons, and winning two World Series trophies. From 2017 to 2024, the Astros never missed a postseason. Now they will be figuring out during this two-week stretch whether they will miss it for a second consecutive year, or be buyers and contend. If they do end up being buyers, they could target a outfielder bat or reliever help, but that comes with question marks. As of the writing of this piece, the Astros are amidst a four-game losing streak, dropping the last 11 games out of 20. It’s becoming likely that the Astros will become sellers at the deadline; The Astros say though that they will be buyers this deadline and due to the tight division, they currently consider themselves buyers.
- During the All-Star Break, the Astros completed a trade with the Brewers sending Lance McCullers Jr and Colton Gordon to Milwaukee, in return for Single-A prospect, Jadyn Fielder. Fielder is the son of 6x All-Star and 2x HR Derby Champion Prince Fielder.
Toronto Blue Jays – 46-53 / 14.4% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 4.5 GB from Wild Card
Have you ever played UNO before? Well the Blue Jays record this season has, and unfortunately, it’s not the one you want your team to have. Last season, when the first half wrapped up, the Blue Jays finished with a 55-41 record, and first in the AL East. Fast forward to this season, they finished the first half with a 45-51 record, and 11.5 games out of the AL East. With a wide open AL though, we could see a scenario where the fifth place Blue Jays sneak into the playoffs. Yes, that sounds crazy, but it wouldn’t be crazy with how the AL looks. This next week will be critical for the front office though, if they come out on the winning side of all this, the Jays could very well be buyers this deadline. They will be looking to improve relief pitching, and possibly a young, controllable arm with the influx of pitchers leaving this offseason. As well as a right-handed outfield bat. If a torrential losing streak ensues, then expect the Blue Jays to make their veteran pitching arms with less than a year of control to be moved. Regardless, out of the three teams who are just in the middle of being buyers and sellers, no one would’ve expected the Blue Jays to be 10+ games out of the division.
San Diego Padres – 49-50 / 9.8% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 2.5 GB from Wild Card
When i wrote out my buyers, sellers and in-between list on Friday night, i had the Padres as buyers. I personally didn’t see them losing 2 out of 3 games against the Royals. Well, i stand corrected, and now i can’t really say what the Padres should do. They are in the middle of still being playoff contenders, but they are starting to fall behind in a stacked NL. Their stars are starting to show their age, and last deadline, the front office dealt away most of their prospects. It’s time for the Padres to figure out what they wanna do for this season and beyond. Moving their relief pitchers like Mason Miller or Adrian Morejon. Trading for Mason Miller would likely mean trading for Xander Bogaerts as well, as the team would like to get off the contract. They’d need Boagerts to waive his NTC to make to move possible, but it’s something that’s been talked about within ownership. Bogaerts has seven years remaining on his 11-year, $280m deal and will turn 34 in October.
Washington Nationals – 50-50 / 4.9% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 2.0 GB from Wild Card
The final in between team as we approach the deadline period are the Washington Nationals. Who are well as you can see, perfectly balanced at 50 wins and 50 losses through their first 100 games of the season. With 62 games left in the season and 14 left before the deadline, the Nationals will be looking towards James Wood and C.J. Abrams to help progress this team as buyers. If the Nats make a push during this final 14 game push, then we will see the Nationals most certainly trade Luis Robert Jr.in exchange for pitching help. No matter what happens, James Wood and C.J. Abrams are already considered untouchable, and the Nats will not be moving them. If they see themselves a few games out of the mix, then expect the Nationals to still look for some controllable pitching arms that are either MLB ready or in the MLB.
Now, this is the moment you have all been waiting for, and possibly the longest shopping list we’ve seen in quite some time in the MLB. With 19 teams still having an above 20% chance to reach playoffs, it’s evident that it’s a buyers market this year. How this will work is we will go through every team that is likely or have said will be buyers. We will mention their needs, pieces that they can move, and more! Welcome to the buyers market of 2026 folks! We’re happy to have you here!
Arizona Diamondbacks – 51-48 / 27.6% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 0.5 GB from Wild Card
The Arizona Diamondbacks will be a team to watch come August/September with the return of Justin Martinez and other players slated to return. There’s still a lot that can happen during these next two weeks but if things continue to go how they have been, this team will be buyers. If, and when that day comes, the D-backs will be looking for a left-handed first baseman, a position that’s been lacking for the D-backs this season. They recently recalled Tyler Locklear, a main piece in the Eugenio Suarez trade from a rehab assignment in Reno, and the team hopes during the next two weeks. That Locklear can prove himself as an everyday first baseman. Another interesting to note is that Zac Gallen, who’s been on a decline, has been dealing with elbow inflammation. The team doesn’t believe it will require surgery, but will seek a second opinion. Gallen’s injury is a huge blow to a pitching department who’s already dealing with injuries. Ryne Nelson is still on the IL, and Corbin Burnes, who’s suffered a teres major (shoulder) strain during his rehab. The team hopes that Burnes, and Nelson could see returns this season for a playoff push. Soroka will begin throwing to live hitters soon, with Justin Martinez throwing a live BP over the weekend. He planned to throw three 100mph pitches past Jordan Lawlar. It’s currently unknown if the D-backs will be looking to trade for a starting pitcher this deadline, but it wouldn’t be the worst idea to have a backup plan for any injuries.
D-backs relief pitchers were asked about the looming trade deadline and the possibility of either of them being traded out of Arizona.
“You know what, with all due respect, I would rather talk about anything else,” Sewald said. “It’s enough stress to keep you up at night. I would prefer not to even talk about it.” A cautious tone taken by the 10-year pro, who has been traded twice in-season during his career: once in 2023, from Seattle to Arizona, and then again in 2025 when he went from Detroit to Cleveland.
That was a similar tone fellow relief pitchers Juan Morillo and Jonathan Loaisiga took as well.
“You know with it being about things up in the air, I’d rather not speak on it,” Morillo said. “I can tell you, despite whatever could happen, these players are focused on winning.”
Loaisiga echoed that sentiment.
“To be honest that’s not something even being talked about,” Loaisiga said. “I’m not really paying much attention to all that trade talk. My mind is on coming in, doing the job, trying to help the team win as much as we can.
“I think that’s something the front office has to handle, that whole conversation.”
Loaisiga has done his job; he has delivered a 2.17 ERA out of the pen and has been one of Arizona’s more reliable arms.
Needs: An everyday left handed first baseman, possibly extra outfield depth.
Pieces to move: Prospect outfielders
Minnesota Twins – 49-51 / 27.2% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 2.0 GB from Wild Card
If the Twins want to compete for a playoff spot, then they will most certainly need to acquire some pitching help. After their two pieces in the Joan Duran trade will miss the remainder of the 2026 season, it’s no question that this team needs to buy.
Twins GM Jeremy Zoll spoke to the media about the two injuries and answered questions about the upcoming trade deadline. “We’re starting to have everyone kind of pop their heads back up and start to get organized, checking in,” Zoll said. “Everything remains extremely congested on a day-to-day basis around the league. I still think there’s going to be a lot of sorting out around the league for this coming week. But everyone is trying to get organized. … We’ll be busy on the phones.”
The Twins remain optimistic Byron Buxton could return this week, as he increased baseball activities each day in Chicago. Buxton felt good enough to add in defensive work with outfield coach Grady Sizemore on Saturday, and he also hit in the cage, Twins manager Derek Shelton said.
Needs: High leverage reliever and/or starting pitcher
Piece to move: Ryan Jeffers
Pittsburgh Pirates – 52-48 / 48.6% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – Tied for last Wild Card spot
For the first time since forever, the Pirates are looking more certain to be competing for a playoff spot this season. If you haven’t been watching, the Pirates have quietly been one of the most consistent offensive teams this season. They rank 6th in the league in home runs with 129, 2nd in OPS, TB and runs, as well as ranking first overall in batting average with .263. Just as an idea, the Pirates offense is on par with likes of the Dodgers and the Rays currently. I think we cal all agree on one thing, that this offense is just fine how it is, Paul Skenes finally has run support!
There’s just one thing that’s keeping this team back from fighting with the Cubs and Brewers for a division title. That’s the Pirates bullpen, their 4.44 ERA is the eighth worse in the entire league, and out of 37 save opportunities, only 19 of those were saved. It’s no doubt that if the Pirates wanna contend in October, then it’s time for some reliever help.
While i don’t think they will be in the running for Mason Miller, they have said they will be looking to add mid-tier talent. While that move may surprise most fans, ownership doesn’t wanna increase payroll at this point in the season. Look for the Pirates to be one of the more moderate buyers this deadline.
Needs: Bullpen help and possibly a utility man as injuries have tested Pittsburgh’s depth this season
Pieces to move: Position prospects in Triple-A
Baltimore Orioles / 49-51 – 30.9% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 2.0 GB from Wild Card
The Orioles are arms length away from a shot to competing for a playoff spot as we approach the final two weeks, but will they hold up? Injuries to Ryan Helsley and Keegan Akin have put pressure on the Triple-A arms to produce very quickly and their play as of late, makes them closer to sellers than buyers.
If the next two weeks go to plan for the Orioles, look for them to flip Taylor Ward for some bullpen help. The O’s have mentioned that if they feel like a extension is unlikely with Ward, then they will trade him away. They could also bite at some MLB-level prospects but we will wait to see. No matter what, the biggest question for the Orioles heading into the second half will be the bullpen and if they can perform.
Needs: Bullpen help
Pieces to move: Taylor Ward
Miami Marlins / 52-48 – 23.3% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – Tied for last Wild Card spot
The Marlins have completely flipped the script from just a month ago. A month ago, this team was likely starting to field the market on SP Sandy Alcantara. Now, they are calling around the league and looking at who they can acquire in their push for a NL Wild Card spot. It’s a crazy turn of events and even crazier if you’re a Marlins fan. There’s no doubt that the Marlins will be buyers this deadline, but the question is who fits the Marlins perfect shopping list?
Currently, Miami is looking for third baseman help, starting pitcher depth and bullpen depth. They understand that the market for rentals will be expensive so their plan is to acquire players with controllable years on their contract. The Marlins have made it known that they plan to build around Eury Perez and other young arms, so don’t expect them to be moved.
Biggest needs: 3B, SP and RP
Pieces to move: Mid-tier prospects
Seattle Mariners / 50-50 – 75.2% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 1.0 GB from Wild Card
Conversations around the league have mentioned that the Mariners will be a team to watch this deadline. Early indications don’t only put them as buyers, but in line for a ‘blockbuster’ move. They’ve started to field calls on starting pitcher Luis Castillo in hopes to acquire a right handed bat and a high-leverage bullpen pitcher. The Mariners could also use prospects Jonny Farmelo and Michael Arroyo as some extra bargaining chips once the deadline approaches closer.
Biggest needs: Right handed bat and high-leverage reliever
Pieces to move: Luis Castillo and position prospects
St.Louis Cardinals / 51-47 – 26.7% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – Tied for last Wild Card spot
St.Louis was one loss away this weekend from being moved into the ‘in-between’ section of this article. They dropped 2 out of 3 games against the D-backs and have dropped 11 out of their past 20 games. Including an ugly 7-0 blown lead on Sunday versus Arizona. This is currently one of the teams that are on the bubble of being sellers and buyers, but with their record, it was hard to not put them as buyers.
It’s unlikely that the Cardinals trade anybody that will be an asset for the future, for short-term gain. The goal is to still build for 2027 and beyond and bolster the farm system. Lars Nootbaar who is under team control till 2027 could be the Cardinals biggest trade chip which would open up the position for some prospects. In return, the Cardinals will be looking for a starter who can eat up innings and give the bullpen some rest. This next week will be crucial for the Cardinals, they face the Angels, D-backs (makeup from rain shortened game) and the Reds. If they don’t come out even, we could see a similar scenario to how the Cardinals approached 2025.
Biggest needs: Starting pitcher that eats innings for breakfast
Pieces to move: Lars Nootbaar
Boston Red Sox / 50-48 – 59.0% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 4th Wild Card spot
One of the coolest stories in baseball as of late. It’s time to sit down and listen to a story about the 2026 Red Sox. Just over a month ago, baseball fans, insiders and even players were starting to write off the Red Sox. I’ll admit, i had started to as well, but there was still a lot of baseball to be played, so i reminded my friends that are Sox fans, to relax. They’ll turn it around.
They’ve done more than just turn it around, they created a damn tidal wave with the 180 they made. Over their last 20 games, the Red Sox have only lost two of those. Yes, only two. They are also currently riding a 13 game win streak, and face the Orioles this upcoming series. One month ago, this team was considered sellers and now, they are the MLB’s hottest team. The Red Sox biggest need to keep this streak going into the postseason is a right-handed bat. Reports have emerged that they are interested in Shea Langliers from the A’s, Hunter Goodman from the Rockies and Ryan Jeffers from the Twins.
Biggest needs: Hunter Goodman’s 30+ HR’s
Pieces to move: Jarren Duran
Philadelphia Phillies / 55-45 – 84.0% to make playoffs – 3rd Wild Card spot
Philadelphia is having the season you expect them to have as of late, but they are just a few pieces away from contending with the Dodgers. This deadline, they will be prioritizing a right-handed hitting outfielder, and a back-end reliever. If the right deal emerges for the Phillies, they could look to acquire a starting pitcher but that isn’t as high on the priority list for Philly.
Biggest needs: Right-handed hitting outfielder, back-end reliever, and starting pitcher.
Pieces to move: Alec Bohm, minor league prospects
Cleveland Guardians / 52-48 – 59.7% to make playoffs – 3rd Wild Card spot
The Guardians will be looking to bolster their bullpen with some extra help this deadline, as well as outfield and first basemen depth. As of now, the Guardians have been linked to Nationals Curtis Mead and Reds Spencer Steer. In the past, the Guardians have been known to be more willing to take on a bigger contract to get more years of control, rather than a rental player who will leave once the season is over. The Guardians are in prime position to make a major move with the major farm capital, where if they make a move, they’d still be competitive.
Biggest needs: First baseman and outfielder.
Pieces to move: Walk into the farm and choose.
Chicago Cubs / 56-43 – 80.8% to make playoffs – 2nd Wild Card spot
Thirty-two. You may be asking yourselves, why is there a random 32 in this section of the Cubs trade deadline spot? Well, it’s a number that if your a Cubs fan, your better off skipping this and reading the next paragraph. Please, trust me, you don’t wanna read this next part. You’re still here? Okay LAST warning, you know you legally can’t sue beyond this point right? Alright, you asked for it. As of the writing of this article, the Cubs have used thirty-two different pitchers up to this point of the season, yes, thirty-two.
If your a Cubs fan and read that last section, i told you. If you skipped over it, great job. It’s better you turn a blind eye to that one. Realistically, no matter what kind of pitcher they can get, they will be happy to receive. Because if it gets any worse, then Alex Bregman may need to start getting loose and give the bullpen an inning or two.
All jokes aside, the Cubs offense has been amazing and really, i can’t think of any additions to make this team better without adding pitching first. The Cubs won’t be parting ways with anyone on the current MLB roster, but expect them to be ready to deal away position prospects in return for pitching depth.
Biggest needs: Anyone who can throw a ball in a strike zone and above 90mph
Pieces to move: Position prospects
Texas Rangers / 50-49 – 56.9% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 2nd Wild Card spot
The Rangers are in a prime position to do what they did in 2023 and sneak into the playoffs, but this time, things are a little different. Now, they are primed for a shot at the title and there’s just a few moves that they need to make to bolster this lineup. First off, the Rangers need a bat that can help create traffic and runs on the base paths. We keep mentioning his name, but he’s just that consistent. Luis Arraez would be the best batter on the Rangers by a far margin and would likely be the answer to bolster the lineup. They will also need some pitching help, more specifically in the bullpen department. They haven’t been bad at all, but another pitcher to bridge the gap for Jacob Latz and Jakob Junis. It wouldn’t be the worse idea to acquire a MLB-ready prospect as well who can get thrown in if Jordan Montgomery or Cody Bradford’s return to the MLB doesn’t go to plan. Both pitchers have been recovering from injuries and are doing well thus far. The Rangers could move pitching prospect Dalton Pence and third-base prospect Yolfran Castillo in a move for either deal.
It’s likely that the Rangers go all in here as they approach a time where most of their prospects have been dealt away last year, and will need to choose between rebuilding or beating a dead horse.
Biggest needs: Right handed bullpen arm, consistent bat in the lineup, possible MLB-ready prospect
Pieces to move: Whatever is left
Atlanta Braves / 57-41 – 93.7% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 1st Wild Card spot
The Braves before the season started were my original pick to win the NL pennant, and so far, they are proving my point. Currently, the defense and offense are putting up top 10 numbers, while the pitching has struggled at times. That’s mainly due to injuries that the Braves have suffered up till this point in the season. Now, questions are emerging whether Spencer Swellenbach and Spencer Strider will be available to pitch again this season. That leaves Chris Sale and well Chris Sale as the sole pitcher. They have Reynaldo Lopez but he hasn’t been ‘playoff-caliber’. The rest of the rotation has been short of expectations. Bryce Elder probably has the best chance to turn it around at this point in the season.
The Braves have made it clear that if a ‘playoff-caliber’ pitcher becomes available on the market, then they will be extremely aggressive. It’s no secret that the Braves have interest in Tigers Casey Mize and Tarik Skubal, and Twins pitcher Joe Ryan. If those plans fall through, then they will look to aim Robbie Ray from the Giants. If all things go to plan, after this deadline is over, they hope to have a solid shortstop in their back pocket as well. In the past, the Braves have been known to try to acquire longer term contracts rather than rental players, so expect the Braves to pay a little more than most teams.
Biggest needs: Starting pitching and a power bat shortstop
Pieces to move: High level pitching prospects
Chicago White Sox / 52-46 – 43.1% to make playoffs – 1st Wild Card spot
For the first time in what feels like years, the White Sox are serious buyers this deadline. Their biggest need is currently a starting pitcher. Specifically, they have been shopping Clay Holmes, from the Mets. He was pitching with a 2.39 ERA before his injury and is currently on his way back from rehab. The White Sox would have to move a top 100 prospect to likely receive Holmes but it’s likely if they can’t land Holmes, they shop elsewhere.
The White Sox are still in the end of a rebuild so don’t expect them to move any controllable pieces that could have an impact on their future.
Los Angeles Dodgers / 63-38 – 100.0% to make playoffs – 2nd seed in the NL
I’ll keep this short and sweet, the Dodgers need an extra starting pitcher with injuries to Glasnow and Snell. As well as a knee injury that has kept Ohtani out of his last two starts. They are watching the market closely. They won’t be shopping a catcher with Will Smith’s neck injury and Dalton Rushing will receive a bulk of the time behind the plate. A bullpen arm in high-leverage situations wouldn’t be the worse idea either, specifically one with playoff experience.
Biggest needs: High-leverage bullpen arm, and starting pitcher
Pieces to move: Any prospect with a heartbeat
New York Yankees / 55-44 – 96.6% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 2nd seed in AL
The Yankees need to do something big this deadline, i don’t care if it’s trading for Ohtani or even getting Derek Jeter out of retirement. It’s time the Yankees make a serious postseason run and prove it with a blockbuster trade. Since 2012, the Yankees have ranked top five in payroll, but haven’t been able to bring home a World Series trophy. If they wanna prove to the league that they wanna takedown the Dodgers. Don’t be surprised to see them take a swing at Hunter Goodman from the Rockies, or even Ryan Jeffers from the Twins. They’ve been linked to adding a high-leverage reliever, and i expect them to attempt to add Adrian Morejon, but if the start align, they could consider eating Boagerts contract and adding Mason Miller, but that’s just speculation. Realistically, the needs for the Yankees are still the same, they need a hard hitting right hander and a high leverage arm. The Yankees are content with their rotation and infield so don’t expect a move from within. I’d expect to move any of these players mentioned, it’d take moving prospects like Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones.
Biggest needs: A power bat to add to Judge and Stanton; High leverage relief arm
Pieces to move: Jasson Dominguez, Spencer Jones, Austin Wells and Anthony Volpe
Milwaukee Brewers / 63-37 – 99.5% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 1st seed in NL
The Brewers were the first official team to kick off the unofficial trade deadline trade phase by receiving Lance McCullers Jr and Colton Gordon from the Astros. Despite the trade, the Brewers are still heavily linked to a high leverage bullpen arm and a power bat. The power bat would just be the icing on the cake and would help fortify their chances in a playoff battle. It’s obvious that the Brewers are in a win-now mode and their deals will most certainly reflect that. The Brewers have one of the best farm systems in the league and now will be the best time to buy. They will try to avoid to deal high-level position prospects, but if they shoot for the stars, they definitely have the chips to do it.
Biggest needs: High leverage bullpen arm
Pieces to move: Triple-A prospects
Tampa Bay Rays / 57-42 – 94.4% to make playoffs, via FanGraphs – 1st seed in AL
Tampa Bay is all in this deadline and the top priority will be an ace starting pitcher. Tampa Bay starting pitchers, Shane McClanahan, Drew Rasmussen and Nick Martinez would certainly be grateful as that would help lighten the workload. They continue to be linked to Twins Joe Ryan and Tigers Tarik Skubal, while Ryan will likely be the choice. The Rays also seek a middle infielder, and have started to call the Giants about Luis Arraez. The outfield and catching department could use a boost but isn’t considered a top priority.
Biggest needs: Ace starting pitcher
Pieces to move: Multiple high level prospect infielders and outfielders
Brewers Kick Off Trade Deadline With Pitcher Trade
The Brewers have officially kicked off this trade deadline season by adding some pitching depth. They acquired RHP Lance McCullers Jr, LHP Colton Gordon and cash considerations from the Astros. McCullers, Altuve and Correa were the final three remaining players from the 2017 World Series winning team. Gordon who has five years of team control remaining and multiple minor league options make the salary dump more enticing to do.
The Astros acquired OF Jadyn Fielder from the Brewers. He is the son of Prince Fielder and is currently in Single-A.
This move helps solidify pitching depth for the Brewers as they hit a critical stretch of the season. McCullers has been on the IL since May 19th with right shoulder inflammation. He had posted a 6.86 ERA in 39 1/3 innings pitched through 8 starts. He is in the final year of a 5yr/$85m deal.
With Hayden Wesneski and Ronel Blanco likely coming off the IL later this month and having acquired Tatsuya Imai, Peter Lambert and Mike Burrows in the offseason, the Astros had enough depth that they could move McCullers and save some money by trading him.
McCullers underwent surgery in June 2023 to repair a flexor tendon and suffered a setback late in the ’24 season before making his long-awaited return May 4 of last year. Two months later, he lived up to his big-game reputation by holding the World Series champion Dodgers to one run in six innings on July 4 at Dodger Stadium, where he started Game 7 of the World Series in ’17.
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