MLB front office executives generally focus on assessing their teams in the initial months of the season, followed by identifying potential trade targets and negotiating with other clubs in the subsequent months. This process reaches its peak in the final two weeks of July when most significant trades take place ahead of the deadline.
While this strategy remains unchanged, the approach feels antiquated in today’s landscape. Nowadays, teams equipped with advanced analytics have a clearer understanding of which franchises are competitive and which are in rebuilding mode, as well as those that may benefit from waiting until just prior to the July 31 deadline to make decisions.
This means teams like the Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies, Pittsburgh Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals, Miami Marlins, Washington Nationals, and Los Angeles Angels are not bound to traditional trade timelines. As non-contenders, they won’t be reaching the playoffs this year, and if opportunities arise to acquire strong prospect packages for veteran players now, they shouldn’t delay until July.
It would be beneficial for executives to start making trades earlier in the season. With that in mind, I’ve put together five trade proposals that could work well for all parties involved. Trading earlier in the season allows a “selling” team to potentially receive better prospects, as “buyers” secure players for a longer duration. While various market factors exist, it’s clear that both buying and selling teams can gain value through earlier trades.
For instance, in the first week of May last year, the Marlins traded batting champion Luis Arraez to the San Diego Padres in a notable deal. Could we witness another early-season blockbuster this May?
1. Orioles Acquire RHP Joe Ryan from Twins
The Orioles are in need of a top pitcher to compete in the AL East and make a playoff run. Joe Ryan, a 28-year-old right-hander with a 2.93 ERA this season, could fulfill that role. He boasts impressive strikeout and walk rates and has a solid career ERA of 3.84. The Twins would receive Cade Povich, a lefty who could slot into their rotation, alongside Coby Mayo, who has major-league power but needs experience, and 21-year-old RHP Michael Forret, a promising prospect with strong early-season performance.
2. Phillies Acquire RHP Ryan Helsley from Cardinals
Philadelphia’s top priority is improving the right side of their bullpen, and they should target Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley. As a two-time All-Star likely to leave St. Louis, Helsley could be traded for 23-year-old pitcher Mick Abel. Abel has shown promise at Triple A and would be a solid addition for the Cardinals.
3. Rangers Acquire CF Luis Robert Jr. from White Sox
With their offense struggling, the Texas Rangers might trade for Luis Robert Jr. to bolster their center field position. Despite a rocky start this season, Robert is under team control and has exhibited significant talent. The White Sox could receive prospects Dylan Dreiling and Kohl Drake, who are both ranked favorably within the Rangers’ system.
4. Tigers Acquire Nolan Arenado from Cardinals
The Detroit Tigers are performing well, but addressing their third base need by acquiring Nolan Arenado could boost their chances. Though Arenado has a no-trade clause, he might reconsider joining a competitive team. If he does agree to the trade, a package of lower-level prospects could satisfy the Cardinals, allowing them to rebuild and create space for emerging players.
5. Royals Acquire OF/DH Jorge Soler from Angels
Given their struggles with home runs, the Kansas City Royals could benefit from reacquiring Jorge Soler, who has maintained his power throughout his career. In exchange, the Angels would acquire RHP Ben Kudrna, providing them with financial flexibility as Soler’s contract needs addressing.
