With only 30 days remaining until the MLB trade deadline, the landscape is particularly dynamic, with 25 of the 30 teams still in contention for postseason spots. This year’s trade market is expected to alter significantly as clubs make pivotal decisions during this period, particularly concerning which players to acquire or move.
In an effort to gauge current sentiments among MLB executives, over 40 decision-makers, mostly presidents and general managers, were surveyed regarding key players likely to be traded. The responses highlighted a mix of anticipated moves and surprising insights, underscoring a climate of uncertainty and speculation as teams continue to assess their positions.
A National League president of baseball operations expressed confusion over the trade market’s direction, indicating that many teams are currently positioned as buyers. Similarly, an American League GM noted that some teams, including the Diamondbacks and Guardians, might hold off until the deadline to finalize their selling or buying strategies.
The survey revealed several names frequently mentioned across various categories of players, particularly starting pitchers, relievers, and position players with high trade potential.
Regarding starting pitchers, Sandy Alcantara of the Marlins topped the list despite an underwhelming record of 4-8 with a 6.98 ERA. His previous success and three postseasons of control make him an attractive target, especially if he performs well in August and September. Other notable pitchers mentioned include Mitch Keller from the Pirates and Merrill Kelly from the Diamondbacks, both of whom have caught the attention of teams seeking to bolster their rotations.
On the relief side, Aroldis Chapman emerged as the primary candidate for trade, boasting an impressive season with a 1.32 ERA and 14 saves. His performance underscores his potential value to contending teams. David Bednar and Dennis Santana from the Pirates, also standout relievers, are reportedly “all but gone,” according to one GM.
In the realm of position players, Josh Naylor of the Diamondbacks stood out as a key target, batting .304 with 10 homers. Meanwhile, there’s speculation surrounding lucrative assets like Luis Robert Jr. of the White Sox and budding power hitters Ryan O’Hearn and Eugenio Suárez, each displaying promising stats in their respective seasons.
The evolving MLB scene might hold unexpected opportunities and strategic moves as the trade deadline approaches. With multiple teams playing a dual role between buying and selling, the deadline could unfold with significant player shifts enhancing team prospects for the postseason. The consensus among executives reveals anticipation for what the coming weeks will bring, awaited with a mix of apprehension and optimism for teams aiming to strengthen their rosters.