As the Aug. 3 trade deadline approaches, there are 24 MLB teams within 6.5 games of a postseason spot, making this a unique season for trade dynamics. Only six teams—Angels, Athletics, Giants, Mets, Rockies, and Royals—are likely to sell players.
A flurry of notable names could be on the trade block, but it’s premature to predict specific trades. The article lists 20 potential trade candidates who may not be stars but could support playoff contenders:
- Luis Arraez (2B, Giants) – Hitting .320, showcasing improved defense.
- Brennan Bernardino (LHP, Rockies) – Strong recent performances with cost control.
- Carlos Cortes (OF, Athletics) – A solid outfielder possibly traded for pitching depth.
- Jonah Heim (C, Athletics) – All-Star catcher with postseason experience.
- Clay Holmes (RHP, Mets) – Impressive pre-injury stats; could attract interest.
- Mark Leiter Jr. (RHP, Athletics) – Excellent relief since mid-May; healthy status critical.
- Tyler Mahle (RHP, Giants) – Improved stats since injury; could be rotation depth.
- Jake McCarthy (OF, Rockies) – Strong season; speed and defense appealing.
- AJ Minter (LHP, Mets) – Impressive return from injury; contract year.
- Mickey Moniak (OF, Rockies) – Versatile and productive; nearing arbitration.
- Freddy Peralta (RHP, Mets) – Struggling, but a history of solid performance.
- Brooks Raley (LHP, Mets) – Effective reliever with a low ERA.
- Robbie Ray (LHP, Giants) – Strong recent start; could be added rotation depth.
- John Schreiber (RHP, Royals) – Consistent performance; low contract value.
- Antonio Senzatela (RHP, Rockies) – Versatile late-game pitcher; potential rental.
- Jorge Soler (DH/OF, Angels) – Inconsistent but with postseason experience.
- Brent Suter (LHP, Angels) – Underwhelming numbers but underlying metrics suggest potential.
- Lane Thomas (OF, Royals) – Resurgent performance might boost trade value.
- Luke Weaver (RHP, Mets) – Controlled through 2027; impressive strikeout rates.
- Kirby Yates (RHP, Angels) – Veteran with solid stats despite age.
With the deadline looming, the market remains unpredictable as these players could shift to contenders seeking to bolster their rosters for the playoffs.
