While many trades are finalized and rumors abound, there’s still significant activity expected. To assist Major League Baseball front offices, MLB.com enlisted six writers to devise intriguing trade proposals, representing major contenders from each division.
Here’s a glimpse of these trade proposals, along with the reasoning behind their potential success.
Note: All statistics are as of Tuesday.
Yankees and Nationals Focus on the Future
Rationale: The Yankees are contemplating whether to invest heavily in 2025. Acquiring Ryan McMahon, who is under contract until 2027, has already enhanced their roster without sacrificing future resources. This hypothetical deal aims to do the same on a larger scale.
The Yankees and Nationals recently concluded a trade, ensuring open communication. Breakout pitcher Gore (3.52 ERA, 11.0 K/9) resembles current Yankee Carlos Rodón. Reliever Finnegan (4.38 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) adds depth, reminiscent of Luke Weaver, another essential player in the Yankees’ rotation.
This trade would allow the Yankees to retain key prospects, while providing the Nationals with valuable talent for future Wild Card pursuits. Schlittler and Lagrange are hard-throwing righties promising potential, and Flores, although not a stellar catcher, has proven hitting prowess.
Tigers Enhance Their Pitching Staff
Rationale: The first-place Tigers, despite having a significant lead in the AL Central, recently suffered a slump, dropping 12 of 13 games. Upgrades are necessary to bolster their postseason potential.
The Tigers acquired Chris Paddack to fill an injured rotation spot but need to reach higher for impactful players like Keller and Bednar. This move could solidify their postseason rotation and provide crucial support, ensuring longevity with Keller signed through 2028.
From the Pirates’ angle, this trade would introduce promising young position players to a franchise predominantly focused on pitching development.
Mariners Seek Late-Inning Reinforcements
Rationale: Known as “Trader Jerry,” Mariners’ president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto seeks bullpen improvements. He has expressed a strong interest in solidifying this area of the market.
Seattle’s bullpen features hard-throwing closer Andrés Muñoz and setup man Matt Brash, but other areas need enhancement. The Mariners may target rental relievers from St. Louis, like Helsley, a two-time All-Star, and Maton, both of whom have shown promise.
With both players heading towards free agency, their acquisition might be feasible, especially for a Mariners team loaded with prospects.
Phillies Strengthen Their Offensive Lineup
Rationale: The Phillies are aiming to enhance their bullpen, but their offense also requires reinforcement. They currently struggle with their center fielders’ combined OPS, ranking among the lowest in the league.
Robert’s recent surge in performance could provide the needed boost. With the right prospects available, Philadelphia might be able to trade while keeping their top young talent intact.
Cubs Target Power Bat and Reliable Starter
Rationale: The Cubs have seen poor performance from their third basemen and need to add a robust starter to their playoff rotation. Acquiring Suárez could significantly bolster their lineup, while adding Kelly as a reliable pitcher makes sense.
Though the cost in prospects for Suárez might be steep, the potential benefits for the Cubs’ already strong batting lineup and rotation could justify this aggressive move.
Dodgers Acquire Essential Relief Help
Rationale: The Dodgers’ bullpen has struggled this season, impacting their standings despite leading the NL West. Securing elite relievers like Duran and Jax could enhance their late-game performance significantly.
With a well-regarded starting rotation and the addition of trusted relievers, the Dodgers are positioning themselves for a deep postseason run. In return, the Twins would receive several Major League-ready arms from a strong farm system, along with a top outfield prospect.
