MLB trade deadline approaches with potential player movement

By Mason Reed — 23 July 2026 — 3 min read

As the MLB trade deadline on August 3 approaches, discussions among fans, media, and front-office executives are focusing on potential player movements. Several trade ideas have been proposed, aiming to address team needs and bolster rosters for a potential postseason push.

One proposed trade involves the Seattle Mariners and the San Francisco Giants. The Mariners could acquire Casey Schmitt, an infielder/outfielder/designated hitter, and left-handed pitcher Erik Miller. Schmitt is noted for his performance against left-handed pitching and his versatility across the infield. Miller has been an effective reliever for the Giants for the past three seasons. In return, the Giants would receive right-handed pitcher George Kirby, who is controllable for 2 1/2 more years and has a salary of $6.55 million. This move would help the Mariners address their need for a right-handed bat and a high-leverage reliever, while also managing their rotation depth. The Giants, in turn, would add a top starting pitcher to their rotation.

Another significant trade idea suggests the Boston Red Sox acquiring catcher Hunter Goodman from the Colorado Rockies. Goodman, who is controllable through 2029 and arbitration-eligible next year, is seen as a middle-of-the-order bat that could significantly boost the Red Sox’s playoff aspirations. He has shown strong offensive output, particularly on the road. The Rockies, in this scenario, would receive a package including left-handed pitcher Connelly Early, right-handed pitcher Kyson Witherspoon, shortstop Marcelo Mayer, and catcher Carlos Narváez. This trade aims to improve the Rockies’ starting rotation with long-term solutions and provide a replacement catcher.

Potential Pitching and Infield Swaps

The San Diego Padres are considering a move for right-handed pitcher Freddy Peralta from the New York Mets. Peralta has had a challenging season, but the Padres’ pitching staff might be able to help him return to his previous form. Peralta is a free agent at the end of the season. In exchange, the Mets would receive left-handed pitching prospect Kash Mayfield, a 2024 first-round pick who has participated in the Futures Game and is currently in High A.

The Chicago Cubs could add right-handed pitcher Michael Wacha from the Kansas City Royals. Wacha, who made the AL All-Star team this year, is controllable through 2027 with a team option for 2028 and has maintained sub-4.00 ERAs for the past five years. The Royals would receive infielder/outfielder Matt Shaw and outfielder Kevin Alcántara. Shaw is projected to have 15-20 home run power as an everyday player, while Alcántara has shown strong performance in Triple A.

The Texas Rangers are looking to enhance their offense by potentially acquiring infielder/designated hitter Luis Arraez from the San Francisco Giants. Arraez has won batting titles with three different teams and is having a strong season both offensively and defensively. He is known for his ability to make contact and create RBI opportunities. The Giants, in return, would receive left-handed pitching prospect Dalton Pence and infielder prospect Yolfran Castillo. Pence has reached Double A and has shown impressive numbers, while Castillo is a 19-year-old infielder from Venezuela who has played at two A-ball levels this year.

Team Strategies and Player Outlook

As the deadline approaches, teams are evaluating their rosters to either strengthen for a championship run or build for the future. The Detroit Tigers are facing questions about whether to trade ace Tarik Skubal. Similarly, the San Diego Padres, despite being in the Wild Card race, might consider trading closer Mason Miller. The New York Mets, with David Stearns, are seen as a critical team in this deadline period, potentially making significant moves as a seller. The Washington Nationals also have a key decision to make regarding one of their major pieces.

The trade market for postseason-caliber starting pitchers is expected to be a key focus, with many teams looking to acquire talent. The overall activity at the deadline will determine which teams become the most aggressive buyers or sellers, and which teams choose to stand pat with their current rosters before the August 3 deadline.

Source: nytimes.com

Mason Reed

Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.