In the lead-up to the August 3 Trade Deadline, the MLB landscape is abuzz with speculation. While some teams are poised to sell off their assets, others are eyeing opportunities to bolster their rosters. Among the 24 teams within striking distance of a postseason spot, only six are near-certain sellers: the Angels, Athletics, Giants, Mets, Rockies, and Royals. These teams are likely to be shedding players, and here's a look at 20 players who could be on the move in the next two weeks.
The Veterans with Value
- Brennan Bernardino (LHP, Rockies): At 34, Bernardino is a cost-controlled relief arm, offering depth to a contender seeking bullpen reinforcements. His recent resurgence makes him an attractive trade chip.
- Mark Leiter Jr. (RHP, Athletics): Despite a hip impingement, Leiter's numbers since mid-May are impressive. As an impending free agent, he could be a solid rental for a contender seeking rotation depth.
- Brooks Raley (LHP, Mets): Raley's four-pitch mix results in soft contact, making him a reliable reliever. His impending free agency adds to his trade value.
The Young Stars on the Rise
- Luis Arraez (2B, Giants): After a career-low season, Arraez is back to his vintage self. His improvement at second base and impending free agency make him a near-lock to be traded.
- Jake McCarthy (OF, Rockies): McCarthy's breakout season in Colorado has him drawing interest. His speed and above-average defense make him an attractive trade candidate.
- Lane Thomas (OF, Royals): Thomas' recent hot streak has boosted his trade value. His ability to play all three outfield spots and impending free agency make him a desirable asset.
The Veterans with Postseason Experience
- Carlos Cortes (OF, Athletics): Cortes' controllable contract and production make him an appealing trade target for a team seeking pitching depth.
- Jonah Heim (C, Athletics): Heim's postseason experience and expiring contract make him a logical trade chip, given the catching needs throughout the league.
- Freddy Peralta (RHP, Mets): Despite a recent dip in form, Peralta's track record makes him a potential trade target for a contender seeking a change of scenery.
The Veterans with Elite Bullpen Skills
- A.J. Minter (LHP, Mets): Minter's elite numbers and impending free agency make him a desirable trade target for a team seeking bullpen depth.
- Kirby Yates (RHP, Angels): Yates' elite chase percentage, whiff percentage, and strikeout percentage make him a valuable trade chip for a team seeking bullpen reinforcements.
The Veterans with Championship Rings
- Jorge Soler (DH/OF, Angels): Soler's postseason experience and championship rings make him an attractive trade target for a contender seeking a veteran presence.
In the lead-up to the Trade Deadline, these 20 players are likely to be on the move. While some are veterans with value, others are young stars on the rise. The trade market is abuzz with speculation, and the next two weeks will be crucial in shaping the MLB landscape for the remainder of the season.
