As summer approaches and the MLB trade deadline looms, last-place teams face critical decisions about trading top players. Here is an assessment of each team’s likelihood to part with their standout performers.
Boston Red Sox: Aroldis Chapman
The Boston Red Sox have a 95% chance of trading Aroldis Chapman. Although Garret Crotchet and Roman Anthony are untouchable, Chapman might be their best performer this season. If no improvements occur soon, he could leave the team. Despite his age, Chapman could still bring valuable prospects to the Red Sox.
Detroit Tigers: Tarik Skubal
The Detroit Tigers have a 99% probability of trading Tarik Skubal. Any chance of retaining him hinges on a quick summer turnaround. Otherwise, the Tigers will likely move the Cy Young winner. They seem unwilling to offer a large contract, similar to what the Los Angeles Angels experienced with Shohei Ohtani in the past.
Los Angeles Angels: Mike Trout
The Angels face a 40% likelihood of moving Mike Trout. The team’s performance remains disappointing. Trout, who has a no-trade clause, expresses contentment with Southern California, making a trade challenging.
New York Mets: Freddy Peralta
The New York Mets have an 80% chance of trading Freddy Peralta. While Juan Soto remains with the team, Peralta might leave due to looming contract talks. Unless David Stearns changes his stance, Peralta’s future with the Mets looks uncertain.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Paul Skenes
Paul Skenes has a 1% chance of leaving the Pittsburgh Pirates. The AL Central’s competitiveness suggests the Pirates might stay in the playoff race. Skenes is expected to remain a Pirate unless a drastic situation arises.
Colorado Rockies: Hunter Goodman
The Colorado Rockies have a 20% likelihood of trading Hunter Goodman. Goodman, a solid MLB catcher, represents hope for the Rockies. The team is unlikely to find a trade package enticing enough to release him, viewing him as a future leader.