Top Trade Targets for MLB Contenders

Over half of big-league teams can talk themselves into being buyers at the trade deadline. The Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers, and New York Yankees already have clear leads in their respective divisions, while the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies are definitely in buy mode.

The list of contenders does not end there. The wild-card races are set to be competitive deep into September in both leagues, and at least 17 teams have a realistic chance of making the postseason.

Not all of those front offices will decide to add major-league talent at the deadline. So we have narrowed it down to 14 teams as we identify their best respective targets in the trade market.

New York Yankees: Miguel Vargas

Miguel Vargas has reduced his strikeout rate while posting the best barrel rate of his career. Under team control through 2029, he will not come cheap, but a cost-controlled infielder is exactly what the Yankees need with Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza struggling at the plate.

At just 25 years old, Vargas could be a productive long-term player in New York.

Detroit Tigers: Bo Bichette

The team with the best record in baseball does not need to make drastic changes. Their offense could use a slight boost rather than a splashy addition, especially amid breakout and bounce-back seasons across the board.

There are holes in the infield, specifically at Trey Sweeney and Andy Ibáñez’s spots. Free-agent-to-be Bo Bichette could be the perfect fit, and he appears to be back on track after a down year, posting an .838 OPS in May.

Houston Astros: Isiah Kiner-Falefa

The Astros’ status as buyers seems to change weekly. As of early June, they hold a narrow lead atop the AL West, which likely pushes them toward another postseason run.

The right side of the infield has been the biggest weak spot. Christian Walker is not available. Isiah Kiner-Falefa or Brandon Lowe could fit at second base, though the team may simply stick with internal options or add a depth piece.

Seattle Mariners: Josh Naylor

Few contending teams have received less from first base than the Mariners. Josh Naylor, who is set to hit free agency this winter, would be a perfect rental if the Diamondbacks choose to sell.

Naylor brings a low strikeout rate, solid contact hitting, and 30-homer power. He could be the boost that takes Seattle’s lineup from decent to dangerous.

Cleveland Guardians: Jesús Sánchez

Cleveland needs help at shortstop, center field, and left field. A 94 wRC+ might be enough to stay afloat with elite pitching, but the arms have not been quite as sharp this season.

The Guardians have a negative run differential, which typically signals regression. Still, they have defied expectations before. Jesús Sánchez could be a sensible addition, especially with two more years of team control.

Minnesota Twins: Trevor Williams

Staying healthy is Minnesota’s best path forward. This front office does not usually make big deadline moves in either direction.

Getting Royce Lewis back regularly should help the offense. The bullpen has been a strength, but Pablo López’s injury could force an addition to the rotation. Trevor Williams, with his 3.93 FIP, would be a low-cost option.

Toronto Blue Jays: Jeffrey Springs

Toronto ranks 20th in wins above average from its rotation and needs more depth behind Kevin Gausman and Eric Lauer. Jeffrey Springs is signed through next season and could slide into the rotation or bullpen depending on need.

Springs has a 4.14 expected ERA and ranks in the 74th percentile in hard-hit rate allowed, making him a flexible and dependable target.

Boston Red Sox: Freddy Peralta

At four games under .500 and with Alex Bregman out, Boston leans toward selling. But if they heat up in July, they could shift gears.

Outside of Garrett Crochet, the rotation has been disappointing. The infield has struggled mightily. If the Brewers fall off, Boston could take a chance on Freddy Peralta as a rental.

New York Mets: Eugenio Suárez

With 16 homers and a 124 OPS+, Suárez is exactly the type of power bat the Mets need at third base. Brett Baty and Mark Vientos have not delivered, and Suárez is a short-term plug without blocking the youth long-term.

Adding him gives the Mets another weapon in what is already a strong lineup.

Philadelphia Phillies: Dennis Santana

The Phillies need bullpen help. Jose Alvarado is suspended, Jeff Hoffman is gone, and Philadelphia ranks 25th in bullpen ERA.

There are plenty of options to consider. Kyle Finnegan, Anthony Bender, Dennis Santana, and David Bednar could all bolster this staff.

Chicago Cubs: Merrill Kelly

The Cubs needed another rotation arm even before Justin Steele got hurt. They now rank 23rd in rotation wins above average.

There are not many appealing options unless some teams go into full teardown mode. Sandy Alcantara is struggling. Merrill Kelly, with solid command and groundball tendencies, is a realistic, affordable fit.

Los Angeles Dodgers: Tyler Mahle

As expected, the Dodgers’ rotation looked great on paper but has been unreliable in practice. They sit 25th in starting pitcher value. Sasaki, Snell, and Glasnow are all hurt. Yamamoto is their only above-average starter.

With the Rangers falling out of contention, Tyler Mahle and his 2.02 ERA could be a smart, low-risk solution for innings.

San Diego Padres: Lourdes Gurriel Jr.

A.J. Preller is never idle. The Padres are getting league-worst production from left field and little from catcher.

Gurriel Jr., Taylor Ward, or even Gavin Lux are names to watch. Preller will act. It is just a matter of how bold he chooses to be.

San Francisco Giants: Brandon Lowe

Buster Posey made his first big move by designating LaMonte Wade Jr. and Sam Huff. Dom Smith and Andrew Knizer stepped in and immediately produced.

Now Posey could look to upgrade second base. Tyler Fitzgerald has a sub-.600 OPS over his last 17 games, and Brandon Lowe could add life to one of the league’s weakest offenses.

Final Thoughts

With so many teams still in the playoff hunt, this year’s trade deadline could be one of the most active in recent memory. Whether it’s a blockbuster move or a subtle roster tweak, the right addition could make all the difference in October. Keep an eye on these names as contenders look to load up for the stretch run.