Trade Deadline Approaches with Potential for Major Moves
As the baseball trade deadline approaches, several teams are anticipated to be active in the market, with the Detroit Tigers, New York Mets, and San Francisco Giants among those expected to make significant decisions regarding their rosters. The deadline is set for Monday at 6 p.m. ET, and while some transactions have already occurred, many more are expected to unfold.
One notable move already completed involved the Red Sox sending Connelly Early to the Nationals in exchange for Curtis Mead. This trade highlights the early activity in what is often a busy period for teams looking to strengthen their rosters or build for the future.
Key Players Drawing Trade Interest
Among the players frequently mentioned in trade discussions is Tarik Skubal, a starting pitcher for the Detroit Tigers. Despite the Tigers being in contention for a wild card spot, there is speculation that they might consider trading Skubal to acquire a strong prospect package. The Los Angeles Dodgers are identified as a potential suitor, reportedly interested in adding a significant player like Skubal to their rotation. A proposed trade scenario suggests the Dodgers could offer pitcher Emmet Sheehan and outfield prospects Zyhir Hope and Ching-Hsien Ko in return for Skubal. Sheehan is under club control through the 2029 season, which could appeal to the Tigers for their future rotation needs. Zyhir Hope, while a promising prospect, is behind others in the Dodgers‘ system but could find a starting role with the Tigers by 2027. Ching-Hsien Ko, a 19-year-old with power potential, is also part of this potential package.
The New York Mets are another team expected to be active sellers. Pitcher Freddy Peralta is a player who could be moved, despite a challenging season where his 4.99 ERA is among the highest for qualified pitchers. His relatively inexpensive $8 million salary this season could make him an attractive option for teams seeking pitching depth. The Milwaukee Brewers are mentioned as a possible destination, with a proposed trade involving first baseman Blake Burke and outfielder Jett Williams. Burke is considered close to the majors and could offer value to the Mets, while Williams, despite a decrease in prospect value this season, might find more opportunities with the Mets than with the Brewers.
Another Mets player generating interest is relief pitcher Luke Weaver. He has maintained a 1.93 ERA this season, including a 24-appearance scoreless streak. Weaver‘s ability to limit hard contact and strike out batters makes him a valuable asset. His $12.5 million salary for next season is considered a fair price for a reliever of his caliber. Teams like the Pirates and Cubs are potential destinations for Weaver, with the Pirates specifically expressing interest in available Mets relievers to bolster their bullpen.
The San Francisco Giants are also expected to be open to trading players. Second baseman Luis Arraez is a strong candidate for a move, with all nine staff members surveyed by one report picking him to be traded. Arraez, signed to a one-year, $12 million deal, is known for his contact hitting, evidenced by his .327/.363/.451 slash line this season. His improved defense, with an Outs Above Average of 11 at second base, further enhances his appeal. The Rays, Dodgers, and Yankees are listed as potential landing spots. Additionally, pitcher Robbie Ray, with an expiring contract and a 3.16 ERA, is another Giants player who could be traded. His home/away splits, with a 2.22 ERA at Oracle Park compared to a 4.35 mark on the road, are a factor in his trade value. The White Sox, Brewers, Astros, and Phillies are among the teams that could pursue Ray.
The Giants are also reportedly considering moving first baseman/designated hitter Rafael Devers. Despite his strong performance since May, including 20 home runs and a .265/.347/.570 slash line, the team may look to cut ties with some veterans. A scenario suggests the Chicago White Sox could acquire Devers, with the Giants potentially paying a significant portion of his remaining contract to secure a prospect like shortstop Billy Carlson.
Other Teams and Players in the Mix
The Chicago Cubs are looking to address their pitching staff concerns, particularly after injuries to Cade Horton and Justin Steele. They are reportedly interested in acquiring pitcher Sandy Alcantara from the Miami Marlins. A potential trade package could include outfielder Kane Kepley and pitchers Dominick Reid and Mason McGwire. While Alcantara has not fully returned to his pre-injury form, his ability to pitch many innings is valuable, especially for a team with a strong defense like the Cubs.
The Cleveland Guardians are seeking offensive improvements and could target outfielder JJ Bleday and first baseman Nathaniel Lowe from the Cincinnati Reds. This move could provide short-term offensive boosts without significantly impacting their budget or farm system. In return, the Reds could receive outfielder Kahlil Watson, catcher Jacob Cozart, and relief pitcher Franco Aleman.
The trade deadline is expected to be active, with many teams assessing their current standing and future prospects ahead of the Monday deadline.
Source: blogs.fangraphs.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.