2026 MLB Trade Deadline Guide: Who’s Buying and Who’s Selling?

Your comprehensive guide to the MLB Trade Deadline, with outlooks on every buyer, seller and team caught between the two.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JULY 17: Mason Miller of the San Diego Padres throws during the ninth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on July 17, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Reed Hoffmann/Getty Images)
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JULY 17: Mason Miller of the San Diego Padres throws during the ninth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on July 17, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Reed Hoffmann/Getty Images)

Welcome to your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about this year’s MLB trade deadline. Buyers, sellers, and teams stuck in the middle are all covered with the same level of detail, highlighting the possible trade targets and team needs.

Now that we are within 48 hours of the trade deadline, things are starting to become clearer on the market. We have seen the Twins make two win-now trades that show they are buyers, while the Mets, Tigers, and Royals have all sold off pieces.

When we first published this piece, there was only a handful of clear sellers and buyers, with a majority of the league falling into the category of somewhere in the middle.

Upon today’s final update, we now have 14 teams we can squarely call buyers based on their records, the reporting we have read thus far, and for some, the win-now moves they have already made.

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Meanwhile, there are nine teams who can now be listed as likely sellers, which leaves us with a group of seven teams caught somewhere in the middle. Read below to find out where each team stands as a way to preview the craziness that is about to unfold at this year’s trade deadline.

MLB Trade Deadline: August 3rd, 6:00 PM EST

Who Will Be Sellers at the Trade Deadline

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 05: Kevin Gausman #34 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on September 05, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 05: Kevin Gausman #34 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on September 05, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Toronto Blue Jays

Trade Deadline Needs: Starting pitching, any offense they can find

Trade Deadline Candidates: Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, Daulton Varsho

As evident by the way the Toronto Blue Jays have played this season, that World Series hangover is real.

A team with such lofty expectations, yet they find themselves as one of the few who are not within five games of a playoff spot in the American League right now.

This will likely push Toronto to cash in on their rentals, with Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber and center fielder Daulton Varsho being among the most prominent.

Gausman has been up and down this year, but would still be one of the best veteran starters on the block. Bieber has not been healthy, but that didn’t stop him from being traded last year. Varsho’s power potential and defensive prowess in center would make him a highly-coveted target as well.

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Assuming the Blue Jays try to make a run this year, they need to find a way to jumpstart their offense. With versatile players like Ernie Clement on the roster, the Blue Jays should aim to find the best bat they can at either second base or in a corner outfield spot.

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - APRIL 1: Freddy Peralta #51 of the New York Mets delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals in the first inning at Busch Stadium on April 1, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI – APRIL 1: Freddy Peralta #51 of the New York Mets delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals in the first inning at Busch Stadium on April 1, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

New York Mets

Trade Candidates: Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes, Luke Weaver, A.J. Minter, Brooks Raley, Luis Robert Jr., Tyrone Taylor, Francisco Alvarez, Luis Torrens, Mark Vientos, Ronny Mauricio

The New York Mets are open for business at this year’s deadline, and with a lack of sellers on the market, teams are going to come calling.

Freddy Peralta is the biggest name who is set to be moved, but his struggles this season may limit the value the Mets can expect in return. Considering how Clay Holmes was pitching prior to hitting the IL, there is a chance a contender will pay just as much for him, as the right-hander could return from a fractured fibula at some point around the deadline.

Left-handed set-up man Brooks Raley will follow A.J. Minter as the next rental reliever ticketed for another team. If healthy, Luis Robert Jr. is a rental that some contender will talk themselves into, especially if the Mets eat the remainder of his salary to juice their return.

Tyrone Taylor is another rental who could slot in somewhere as a fourth outfielder, which would open up a roster spot for prospect Nick Morabito down the stretch to see if he can fill that role for the Mets in 2027.

The Athletic reported that the Mets catching tandem of Luis Torrens and Francisco Alvarez will garner some interest at the deadline, but the Mets may be hesitant to give up on the upside of Alvarez, or the stellar defense of Torrens. Struggling infielders Mark Vientos and Ronny Mauricio are change-of-scenery candidates that could be moved for marginal returns if the Mets are ready to move on.

The best trade chip David Stearns has, though, is Luke Weaver, who has been on a tear lately and is locked into an affordable $12.5 million salary for 2027. The Mets would like to keep Weaver as a key cog in their bullpen, but the return may be too good for them to pass up.

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KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – MAY 4: Michael Wacha #52 of the Kansas City Royals walks in from the bullpen with Salvador Perez #13 (2L) prior to a game against the Texas Rangers at Kauffman Stadium on May 4, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)

Kansas City Royals

Trade Candidates: Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, Vinnie Pasquantino, John Schreiber, Matt Strahm, Daniel Lynch IV, Lane Thomas

Royals fans, I’m sorry. After a unexpect surge two seasons ago, you are right back trending in the wrong direction. In many ways, I think it will get worse before it gets better. Wacha and Lugo were great free agent finds but are nearing the end of their careers and can bring back a much-needed boost to the farm system. Pasquantino is another option I would consider moving even if that hurts to hear.

The moves of the past two offseasons have not panned out as you would have hoped. Luckily, you still have Bobby Witt Jr. and a couple of young pieces blossoming before our eyes. There’s light at the end of the tunnel, but for 2026, close your eyes, move the veteran starters, and look towards Chiefs football.

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 08: Reid Detmers #48 of the Los Angeles Angels throws against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 08, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 08: Reid Detmers #48 of the Los Angeles Angels throws against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 08, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Los Angeles Angels

Trade Candidates: Jose Soriano, Reid Detmers, Kirby Yates, Jo Adell, Jose Siri, Oswald Peraza

Historically, the Angels have done the opposite of what made sense at the deadline. Recklessly buying in on Ohtani’s last season was risky, but I get it. Did it work out? Nope. Not much has for the Angels, which is why Perry Minasian was fired, giving fans hope that this deadline could be different.

A proper rebuild has yet to happen and I think it’s time to face the facts. A complete organizational change in process needs to happen, and there’s no better starting point than now. Soriano and Detmers are pieces that carry value and should be moved to help improve a farm system that’s lived near the bottom of the league. Anything you can get for Adell will be worth it. Darker days are ahead in Anaheim.

CHICAGO, IL – MAY 04: JJ Bleday #22 of the Cincinnati Reds celebrates as he rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run in the third inning during the game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on Monday, May 4, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by George Gaza/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Cincinnati Reds

Trade Candidates: JJ Bleday, Brady Singer, Nick Lodolo, Caleb Ferguson, Nathaniel Lowe, Tyler Stephenson, Brock Burke, Tejay Antone, Sam Moll, Pierce Johnson

Cincinnati has been one of the worst teams since the start of May. A perpetual cycle of rebuilding has resulted in advancing in the playoffs zero times since 1990. After firing their manager two years ago, the clock is ticking on the front office, and I think it’s about to hit zero.

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Nathaniel Lowe and JJ Bleday were value signings that have overperformed and could return a mid-level prospect. Cash in. Nick Lodolo has one more year of team control and should be moved if the value is there. Someone wants Spencer Steer? Move him. An organization in a difficult position with a middling farm system cannot get too picky.

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – MAY 03: Second baseman Luis Arraez #1 of the San Francisco Giants heads to the plate against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on May 03, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Calvin Hernandez/Getty Images)

San Francisco Giants

Trade Candidates: Luis Arraez, Matt Chapman, Robbie Ray, JT Brubaker, Sam Hentges

What has happened in San Francisco is nothing short of a mess. Buster Posey, a franchise icon who knew winning, is already on his heels. The Devers trade has not propelled them to the top of the division, and neither have the other significant investments they have made.

Luis Arraez is suddenly a solid defender at second and back to being one of the better bat-to-ball players in the game. On an expiring deal, there should be a number of suitors for him.

While Willy Adames and his contract might not be movable, is Matt Chapman’s? I think they should find out. While not a complete teardown, listening on any of the veterans is not out of the question.

TEMPE, ARIZONA – MARCH 15: Hunter Goodman #15 of the Colorado Rockies bats during the third inning of the spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on March 15, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Jeremy Chen/Getty Images)

Colorado Rockies

Trade Candidates: Hunter Goodman, Mickey Moniak, Jake McCarthy, Ryan Feltner, Antonio Senzatela, Jose Quintana, Brennan Bernardino, Jimmy Herget, Michael Lorenzen

A new front office and organizational philosophy has been refreshing to see in Colorado. They have improved since last season and are headed in the right direction, but still a few years away from being contenders. Capitalizing on their projects, they have turned around players such as Moniak, McCarthy, and Senzatela, who should be at the top of the to-do list.

I’m sure Hunter Goodman will be on contenders’ radar. To me, he’s simply too good to move at this year’s deadline with three years of control. Not only is that a tough message to sell to fans, but with three more years of control, finding a trade partner willing to match value will be difficult.

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BOSTON, MA – APRIL 18: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Courtney Kramer/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Detroit Tigers

Trade Deadline Needs: Right-handed outfielder, third baseman or shortstop, short-side platoon bench piece, young starting pitching, leverage bullpen arm

Trade Deadline Candidates: Tarik Skubal, Casey Mize, Jack Flaherty, Gleyber Torres, Kyle Finnegan, Kenley Jansen

Now that the Tigers did the hard part and traded Tarik Skubal, it is likely that we see a further strip-down of their roster from here.

Detroit will look to compete in 2027, so I expect the return for their pieces to either be young big leaguers or players who could factor in as early as next season. Mize could pull a return they are happy with and allow them to hold Torres who’s injury has weakened his value.

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 29: Luis Severino #40 of the Athletics pitches during the game between the Athletics and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, June 29, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by Evan Yu/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 29: Luis Severino #40 of the Athletics pitches during the game between the Athletics and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, June 29, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by Evan Yu/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Athletics

Trade Deadline Needs: 1-2 starting pitchers, infield help either at third or second, high-leverage reliever, bullpen depth especially left-handed

Trade Deadline Candidates: Luis Medina, Hogan Harris, Aaron Civale, Jeff McNeil, Luis Severino, Carlos Cortes

Injuries have been an anchor to this team. Brent Rooker, Jacob Wilson, Zack Gelof, Luis Severino, and others have missed significant time, causing the A’s to pull further and further away from the .500 mark.

The AL being weak makes buying tempting, but has this team proven enough to convince a stingy organization to roll the dice?

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Selling is an option, although they lack impact pieces to move. Capitalizing on the found gold that is Carlos Cortes makes sense, especially with Henry Bolte, Lawrence Butler, and Tyler Soderstrom looking like the outfield group moving forward.

Who Will Be Buyers at the Trade Deadline

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 30: Aroldis Chapman #44 of the Boston Red Sox reacts after striking out Trent Grisham #12 of the New York Yankees (not pictured) to end game one of the American League Wild Card Series at Yankee Stadium on September 30, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images)

Boston Red Sox

Trade Deadline Needs: First base/DH, middle infield, rotation depth

Trade Deadline Candidates: Jarren Duran, Willson Contreras, Sony Gray, Aroldis Chapman, Garrett Whitlock

The Boston Red Sox have been the hottest team in baseball over the last few weeks, tying a franchise record with their 15-game winning streak, which was finally snapped last night. The winning streak catapulted the Red Sox right back into playoff positioning and out of being sellers at the deadline.

Teams that were lining up to trade for Aroldis Chapman or Garrett Whitlock to solidify the back-end of their bullpen, or Sonny Gray to headline their rotation, are going to be out of luck. Instead, it’s the Red Sox who will be looking to add some pieces to round out their roster they hope can make it out of the American League.

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – MAY 19: Drew Rasmussen #57 and Shane McClanahan #18 of the Tampa Bay Rays look on prior to a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Tropicana Field on May 19, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

Tampa Bay Rays

Trade Deadline Needs: 1-2 outfielders, 1 catcher, 1 middle infielder, 1 starting pitcher, bullpen help

Like always, the Rays are stacking wins despite having a lineup mostly made up of Jimmys and Joes. Although they continue to win, upgrades would be welcomed. Finding a solution at second base or shortstop while upgrading at catcher would be a good starting point. A few more arms couldn’t hurt, either.

Tampa has one of the best farm systems not only based on top-end talent but depth. While it is not typically their cup of tea to swing for big names in trades, I do think they have the ammo to do so this season.

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Why not go after Skubal + Torres? While it feels uncharacteristic, at some point the Rays need to take the calculated risk and realize they need a bit more star power once October arrives.

Expect a more aggressive deadline than usual from Tampa. At least we hope.

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 07: Aaron Judge #99 and Jazz Chisholm Jr. #13 of the New York Yankees talk before the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on October 7, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images)

New York Yankees

Trade Deadline Needs: Two bats (one on the left side of the infield, one in the outfield), 1 starting pitcher, bullpen help

I think we are at a point where the Yankees understand the prime Judge years won’t last forever. Any chance they have to truly push for a World Series needs to come with aggression, and 2026 is one of those years. Injuries to Judge, Fried, and Rodon have weakened the team but not to the point of losing hope.

New York’s farm system plus young players with control is to the point where they could pull off a significant trade. After a few years of criticism for not behaving like the old Yankees, I think they will push for a major move.

Jazz Chisholm playing below his standard while Austin Wells is sinking has made the need for impactful bats that much more crucial. Don’t let another year go by where you are left wishing you had done more.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 25: Shohei Ohtani #17 and Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on during the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium on May 25, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Yuichi Masuda/Getty Images)

Los Angeles Dodgers

Trade Deadline Needs: Luxury Shopping for Tarik Skubal or a high-leverage reliever

UPDATE: The write-up below was from prior to the Skubal trade. Clearly they got their man.

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Original Post:

The Los Angeles Dodgers don’t really need much to win another World Series title. In fact, they’d be the favorites even if they stand pat.

The Dodgers’ rotation has been solid all year, and they are about to get Blake Snell back, with Tyler Glasnow still in play to return for the stretch run. With the depth they have in place, there really is no need for the Dodgers to go all-in on trading for Tarik Skubal. But with a new CBA on the horizon, landing Skubal is the type of home run swing a team should take when they are eyeing a third-straight title.

With all of that said, there is no guarantee that Skubal is going to be on the block. So the Dodgers will likely cast a wide net, and will look to land any high-octane arms they can find. Whether that be starting pitchers or relief aces that they can add to their stable.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MAY 18: Jake Bauers #9 and Andrew Vaughn #28 of the Milwaukee Brewers high five after Bauers’s three-run home run in the fifth inning of the game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on May 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Zoe Davis/Getty Images)

Milwaukee Brewers

Trade Deadline Needs: Rental infielder at short or third, right-handed outfielder, veteran starting pitcher

You can almost copy and paste what I said about the Rays and place it here. A team that always is a well-oiled machine, once again finding themselves atop the division but still having needs.

Significant injuries to their rotation have made starting pitching a clear need, while upgrading the left side of the infield could boost the lineup.

Some say the Brewers farm system is the best they have seen in years. High-end talent with tons of depth makes pulling off the most impactful move at the deadline possible. I’ll even throw Skubal on the list of potential moves. We all remember the C.C. Sabathia trade; why not try with a big lefty again?

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Milwaukee has whatever the seller needs from major league-ready arms to controllable bats to teenage stars.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 27: Edmundo Sosa #33 and Brandon Marsh #16 of the Philadelphia Phillies react following a solo home run hit by Sosa during the fifth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citizens Bank Park on September 27, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – SEPTEMBER 27: Edmundo Sosa #33 and Brandon Marsh #16 of the Philadelphia Phillies react following a solo home run hit by Sosa during the fifth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citizens Bank Park on September 27, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Philadelphia Phillies

Trade Deadline Needs: Starting caliber outfielder, backup catcher, utility bench piece, lefty bullpen arm, middle reliever

I was guilty of thinking this Phillies era was all but over heading into the season, yet here they are chasing down the Braves. Bringing back J.T. Realmuto is not looking like the right move, and Trea Turner’s struggles have emphasized the need for another bat. You can live with Justin Crawford in center if you have to, but upgrading right field, which has been a problem all year, is a must.

Once you find a clear upgrade to the lineup, focusing on getting innings out of a five-starter, rounding out the bench, and adding to the bullpen should become easier. We all know Dave Dombrowski is not scared of a risky trade, but having enough young pieces to pull on off could be the problem.

DETROIT, MI - SEPTEMBER 21: Ha-Seong Kim #9 of the Atlanta Braves rounds the bases after hitting home run against the Detroit Tigers during the fourth inning at Comerica Park on September 21, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI – SEPTEMBER 21: Ha-Seong Kim #9 of the Atlanta Braves rounds the bases after hitting home run against the Detroit Tigers during the fourth inning at Comerica Park on September 21, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)

Atlanta Braves

Trade Deadline Needs: Shortstop, corner outfielder, high-end starter, righty reliever

The Braves need for a left fielder, and a shortstop tends to pop up every season. Mauricio Dubon has done a great job filling in and could be the answer at either position, but not both.

A top-heavy lineup with an injured Ronald Acuna Jr. and struggling Austin Riley needs some juice injected, preferably a righty bat. Their wave of younger arms who were supposed to step up landed on the IL, making the need for a starter that much more important.

A significant move will likely cost Atlanta Cam Caminiti and/or JR Ritchie, but Eric Hartman making a huge leap this season gives them another prospect with legit value. In the past, Atlanta has not had the prospect power to pull off the biggest moves, but they might now.

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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – OCTOBER 08: Nico Hoerner #2, Pete Crow-Armstrong #4 and Dansby Swanson #7 of the Chicago Cubs celebrate after defeating the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3 in game three of the National League Division Series at Wrigley Field on October 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Chicago Cubs

Trade Deadline Needs: Lefty bat (corner OF or DH), high-end starter or two quality starters, bullpen help, bench outfielder

Chicago’s lineup has depth, power, speed, bat-to-ball, and an Alex Bregman that could get back on track at any moment. I’m sure keeping Conforto in the mix in the corners and as DH is perfectly fine, but the Cubs would welcome an upgrade or platoon partner to their bench. However, the main focus is on the rotation.

Injury after injury after injury forced the Cubs into quickly acquiring David Peterson, but we all know that will not be a major answer to their problem. I can’t get the Casey Mize fit off of my mind.

Chicago has the young major league-ready talent to pull off a big move and still find supplemental pieces to improve on the edges. I think arms will be their deadline focus, and considering how good the lineup is they should not be afraid to be aggressive.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 26: Brandon Lowe #5 of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts to hitting a 2-run home run during the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day at Citi Field on March 26, 2026 in the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 26: Brandon Lowe #5 of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts to hitting a 2-run home run during the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day at Citi Field on March 26, 2026 in the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images)

Pittsburgh Pirates

Trade Deadline Needs: Catcher depth, utility bench option, bullpen help

Trade Candidates: Brandon Lowe, Mitch Keller, Dennis Santana, Carmen Mlodzinski

Pittsburgh’s lineup from top to bottom has been well above average. Currently, all nine of their starters have a wRC+ over 100, but injuries to Oneil Cruz, Spencer Horwitz, and Konnor Griffin will make staying alive in the Wild Card hunt difficult. Paul Skenes not showing the best version of himself will also lower their ceiling.

Considering the amount of prospects and young arms they have, I do see a path where they can buy without getting reckless. In fact, I think that’s exactly what they should do. The players and fans deserve it. The Pirates are one of the few teams in this category that have needs that are reasonable to acquire with a system that can pull it off without depletion.

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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 05: Eduardo Rodriguez #57 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches in the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on April 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 05: Eduardo Rodriguez #57 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches in the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on April 05, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

Arizona Diamondbacks

Trade Deadline Needs: Rotation help, two bullpen lefties, first baseman, Outfielder

Trade Deadline Candidates: Eduardo Rodriguez, Paul Sewald, Kevin Ginkel, potentially Ketel Marte

While many teams are stuck in the land of in between, I think no team is as stuck as Arizona. Floating around .500 works in the AL, but not the NL. Considering how many needs they have, from lineup depth to multiple starters finding reasonable solutions, piecing together trades that don’t hit their system too hard will be challenging.

What’s also challenging is finding teams that value what they have to sell. Gallen has been a shell of what he once was, Kelly is near the end of his career and looking like it, and Rodriguez’s ERA does not match his value. Will they really move Marte? I wouldn’t be shocked, but the percent chance is low, in my opinion.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JULY 15: Byron Buxton #25 and Joe Ryan #41 of the Minnesota Twins look on prior to the MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park on July 15, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images)

Minnesota Twins

Trade Deadline Needs: Infielder, corner outfield, starter, significant bullpen help

The Twins have made the decision they are buyers this year, and with the playoffs within reach, why not?

This team still needs way more pitching than they have already added with A.J. Minter and Dean Kremer, particularly in their bullpen.

How far will they go to build a contender for this season?

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BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – JUNE 30: Junior Perez #37 of the Chicago White Sox celebrates his three-run home run with Jacob Gonzalez #7, Tristan Peters #29 and Kyle Teel #8 in the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on June 30, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

Chicago White Sox

Trade Deadline Needs: Right-handed bullpen arms, Bench infielder, Frontline starter

UPDATE: Since the write-up below, the White Sox have traded for Luis Castillo. Doesn’t exactly scream frontline starter anymore, but we will see if Castillo can have a return to form in Chicago.

Original Post:

Chicago has been one of the best stories in baseball. A young team that is blossoming together as Miguel Vargas, Colson Montgomery, and Sam Antonacci have all turned into legit producers in the lineup.

With Murakami about to come back, the lineup not only has upside, but more depth than anyone anticipated. The White Sox have earned the opportunity to be buyers for the first time in years. Plus, they really do not have much to sell, making the decision easier.

The most obvious need is in the rotation. Davis Martin and Sean Burke have taken a step forward, and Anthony Kay is a fine backend arm, but you need someone you trust to take the ball in a playoff game. I doubt they will invest in many rentals, but trading for someone with control, say Reid Detmers, is a fun fit.

They have the prospect capital to pull off a trade that truly changes the team from a fun story to one that could make some noise.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 02: José Ramírez #11 of the Cleveland Guardians bats during the sixth inning in Game Three of the American League Wildcard Series against the Detroit Tigers at Progressive Field on October 02, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 02: José Ramírez #11 of the Cleveland Guardians bats during the sixth inning in Game Three of the American League Wildcard Series against the Detroit Tigers at Progressive Field on October 02, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)

Cleveland Guardians

Trade Deadline Needs: Outfield (RH), bat to fill DH, fifth starter

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Trade Deadline Candidates: Steven Kwan, Rhys Hoskins, Colin Holderman

We all know that Cleveland is not afraid to make a move you would not expect. Last season there were rumors about Kwan swirling, but they ultimately held on to him, which is looking like the wrong move. Will they be willing to sell low? IF not, they really do not have much else to move unless they are willing to deal a high-end bullpen arm with three more years of control.

Buying is possible, but something about this year’s team doesn’t feel like they will make much impact at the deadline. Which is fine because every year the Guardians find a way to get into the playoffs regardless of what their roster looks like on paper.

CINCINNATI, OHIO - APRIL 1: Corey Seager #5 of the Texas Rangers walks off the field after the final out in the ninth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 1, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO – APRIL 1: Corey Seager #5 of the Texas Rangers walks off the field after the final out in the ninth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on April 1, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)

Texas Rangers

Trade Deadline Needs: Outfielder, Bullpen, starter depth

Trade Deadline Candidates: Corey Seager, Joc Pederson, Jake Burger, Ezequiel Duran, Kyle Higashioka, Elias Diaz, Tyler Alexander

When juxtaposing the Rangers trade deadline needs with what they can offer at the deadline, one might wonder if the best course for Texas may be to sell.

Jake Burger and Ezequiel Duran both have two years left of team control before hitting free agency, so they could be part of the future in Texas, but they also would represent two of the better right-handed bats in a barren market. Duran in particular brings positional flexibility that would allow Texas to cast a wide net.

Joc Pederson has turned things around in a major way this year and is a rental, making it attractive to cash in on his value if a team comes calling. The same can be said about their two catchers, Kyle Higashioka and Elias Diaz, and reliever Tyler Alexander.

Which Teams Are Caught in the Middle?

Luis Castillo of the Seattle Mariners in action against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 23: Luis Castillo #58 of the Seattle Mariners in action against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on May 23, 2024 in New York City. The Yankees defeated the Mariners 5-0. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Seattle Mariners

Trade Deadline Needs: bullpen depth, bench help, short-side platoon bat

Trade Deadline Candidates: Luis Castillo

UPDATE: Well, the one trade deadline candidate we had listed when the article was first published was moved in Luis Castillo. Now the question is what do the Mariners do next, as they could further sell, but are more likely to conservatively buy to try to win this season.

Original Post:

Seattle has been dealing with a great problem to have – too many starters. The emergence of Emerson Hancock combined with Bryce Miller taking a step forward since his return has made Luis Castillo an interesting trade chip to be moved in the less common major leaguer for major leaguer deal.

A trade to Houston makes a ton of sense, but I doubt we see two divisional rivals make the swap.

Luckily, the Mariners’ needs are not too drastic to acquire, and once they get Brendan Donovan and Julio Rodriguez back, the lineup depth drastically improves.

Find a Rob Refsnyder replacement, see if you can upgrade the bench, and add a bullpen arm with some experience and track record to the mix. If the Mariners really want to make a splash, they have the young talent to do so.

MIAMI, FL – AUGUST 02: Otto Lopez #6 of the Miami Marlins celebrates with Xavier Edwards #9 after defeating the New York Yankees at loanDepot park on Saturday, August 2, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Lucas Casel/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Miami Marlins

Trade Deadline Needs: rotation depth, closer, third base

In the nearly two weeks since we published this article, the Marlins have lost every single game they have played since we categorized them as buyers at the trade deadline. The Marlins are still only 1.5 games out of a playoff spot, but with each loss, the chances of them buying at the deadline feel less and less likely.

If the Marlins do decide to buy, there is a clear hole over at third base they should look to fill. Recently, Javier Sanoja has been receiving a lion’s share of the playing time at third base, but he is best-suited for a utility role.

In the perfect world, the Marlins could find a young third baseman with some years of control, giving them a solution not only for 2026, but for the future as well. The Marlins could also use some rotation help, as they have been hit hard with injuries this season.

Adding a closer would go a long way as well, but the Marlins may not feel it is wise to push too many chips in for a season that is not likely to end with a deep playoff run.

BALTIMORE, MD – JUNE 28: Luis García Jr. #2 of the Washington Nationals celebrates as he rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run in the seventh inning during the game between the Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Sunday, June 28, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Alyssa Piazza/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Washington Nationals

Trade Deadline Needs: Outfielder, backup catcher, DH, back of rotation arm, as many bullpen arms as they can get

Trade Deadline Candidates: Foster Griffin, Luis Garcia Jr., CJ Abrams

Similar to the White Sox, the Nationals have taken a bigger leap than many were expecting. However, in year one of a new front office, I doubt they will change course and become buyers to chance playoff success this season. They are still trying to build a system with players the current front office wants, and moving someone like Foster Griffin makes too much sense.

Where things get interesting is when teams call on Abrams (FA ’29) and Garcia Jr. (FA ’28). Garcia Jr. has newly found power and is currently having, by far, his best season.

Do the Nationals see him as part of their future, or will they capitalize on his 2026 success?

Abrams will have plenty of interest, but moving him at this point in time doesn’t make much sense. Ride it out, see how 2026 goes, and maybe a taste of winning will interest him in a long-term deal.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 10: Adrian Morejon #50 of the San Diego Padres pitches during the eighth inning of a game against the Boston Red Sox at Petco Park on August 10, 2025 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 10: Adrian Morejon #50 of the San Diego Padres pitches during the eighth inning of a game against the Boston Red Sox at Petco Park on August 10, 2025 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

San Diego Padres

Trade Deadline Needs: Bats (wherever they can put them), starting pitching

Trade Deadline Candidates: Adrian Morejon, Michael King, Ty France, Gavin Sheets

The San Diego Padres may be best served selling at this year’s trade deadline, but that is so far out of their character, we have to assume they are going to try to buy. The Padres lineup has been pretty awful across the board this season, as their core players have been underwhelming to say the least.

The Padres can’t find anything at the deadline that will move the needle more than Jackson Merrill, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado getting going, but they can try to find a few complementary pieces to round things out. Luis Arraez might look good back in a Padres uniform, especially if it pushes Jake Cronenworth and his 64 wRC+ to the bench.

Along with their need for some life offensively, the Padres rotation is not nearly strong enough to make a deep run. Adding a frontline arm would go a long way for San Diego, but they may not have the ammunition in the farm to pull that off.

Now, on the off-chance the Padres fall out of the race enough that A.J. Preller decides to sell, San Diego does have a top rental reliever in Adrian Morejon, and they could even dangle Michael King.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 03: Adley Rutschman #35 of the Baltimore Orioles fields the ball against the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 03, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – APRIL 03: Adley Rutschman #35 of the Baltimore Orioles fields the ball against the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 03, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)

Baltimore Orioles

Trade Deadline Needs: Bullpen help, infield bench upgrades, corner outfield

Trade Deadline Candidates: Adley Rutschman, Taylor Ward, Trevor Rogers, Keegan Akin, Ryan Helsey, Leody Taveras

Baltimore is in an extremely difficult spot. A team under .500 that doesn’t have many lineup spots they would replace, a rotation that is pitching pretty well and part of next year’s team, and a bench that is difficult to move.

I don’t think they will move assets to upgrade Dylan Beavers while Tyler O’Neil is on the team, making legit money and Taveras is performing. Jackson Holiday will continue to get reps at second, and Blaze Alexander has been a quality player at third.

They could use some bullpen help, but who couldn’t? It’s a difficult roster to convince me to be buyers, but the idea of them being sellers could be true. Rutschman has one more year of control, and Samuel Basallo makes moving him easier to stomach.

Taylor Ward is an expiring contract with value, and the same could be said about Rogers. The reality is it’s once again not the O’s year.

HOUSTON, TX – MARCH 27: Isaac Paredes #15 of the Houston Astros throws to first for an out in the fourth inning during the game between the New York Mets and the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on Thursday, March 27, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kevin M. Cox/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Houston Astros

Trade Deadline Needs: outfield help,1 frontline starter or two back-end starters, bullpen help

Trade Deadline Candidates: Steven Okert, Bryan Abreu, Isaac Paredes, Christian Walker

The Houston Astros have not been a seller at the trade deadline, and it would take a real fall from grace to push them in that direction this year.

At the same time, the Astros would have a few right-handed bats that would be highly coveted in Isaac Parades and Christian Walker; Steven Okert is a rental reliever that could fetch you a prospect. And despite the fact that he has had an awful season, there might be a contender like the Dodgers or Brewers who wouldn’t mind the project of getting Bryan Abreu right for a playoff push and would send over a prospect for the opportunity.

Assuming the Astros don’t sell, though, this is a team that could use some help in the starting rotation. Every contender can use bullpen help, and the Astros aren’t excluded. They also have had a revolving door of outfielders this year and could use a stable veteran bat or even two that form a platoon.

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - MARCH 28: JJ Wetherholt #26 of the St. Louis Cardinals celebrates after hitting a walk-off two run single against the Tampa Bay Rays in the tenth inning at Busch Stadium on March 28, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Joe Puetz/Getty Images)
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI – MARCH 28: JJ Wetherholt #26 of the St. Louis Cardinals celebrates after hitting a walk-off two run single against the Tampa Bay Rays in the tenth inning at Busch Stadium on March 28, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Joe Puetz/Getty Images)

St. Louis Cardinals

Trade Deadline Needs: Third base, outfielder or DH, rotation help

Trade Deadline Candidates: Lars Nootbar, Pedro Pages, Dustin May, JoJo Romero, Riley O’Brien

St. Louis has been better than most expected, although their winning record is mostly due to a hot start in April before playing around .500 since. They are still more focused on continuing to build a long-term winning team than chasing short-term success, making their deadline approach, perhaps, a bit stale.

I wouldn’t think we would see much movement. Dustin May and Riley O’Brien have cooled off after a great start, taking a hit to what once looked like significant deadline assets.

JoJo Romero has been a reliable lefty for years and should fetch a decent prospect, while capitalizing on a (for now) healthy Lars Nootbaar might not be the worst idea.

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