The Athletic staff took a bold step, making predictions for the trade deadline concerning Major League Baseball’s 30 clubs. These forecasts span potential trades and player moves. As the deadline approaches on August 3, the outcomes may vary. Here are those predictions, organized by team:
San Diego Padres
Mason Miller is predicted to be traded next year. Despite being one of the top closers, the Padres might look to move him for starting pitching down the line.
Boston Red Sox
The Red Sox might add a right-handed bat. Their strong season puts them in a position to seek offensive reinforcements to complement their robust pitching lineup.
Colorado Rockies
The Rockies seem inclined to extend Hunter Goodman instead of trading him, viewing him as a cornerstone for the future.
Texas Rangers
Luke Weaver could join the Rangers, providing a much-needed boost to their bullpen.
Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays are predicted to make a significant trade move, potentially involving a bat, pitcher, or catcher, with Joe Ryan being a possible target.
Seattle Mariners
Jerry DiPoto’s team might be quieter than usual at the deadline. Despite needs, the crowded market could limit aggressive moves, although a deal with the Reds might be on the table.
Chicago White Sox
The White Sox require two starters to reinforce their rotation and compete for the AL Central title.
New York Yankees
The Yankees could seek a right-handed hitting catcher to improve on their current underperforming options.
Washington Nationals
CJ Abrams might be traded to maximize future chances, given his market value.
Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays are expected to acquire a top-tier starter with long-term team control.
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks might trade for Luis Garcia Jr., addressing their need for a first baseman slugger.
Miami Marlins
Liam Hicks could be traded, leveraging his strong performance amidst a surplus of catching talent.
Oakland Athletics
The A’s might not make significant moves due to the underperformance of their veterans, who were potential trade pieces.
Minnesota Twins
The Twins plan to add roster depth, targeting major-league pitching and bullpen help.
San Francisco Giants
Bryce Eldridge is expected to lead the Giants in OPS, signifying both a positive outlook for his future and concerns for the team’s existing roster.
Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers have their sights on acquiring Tarik Skubal, potentially shaking up their cautious roster-building approach.
St. Louis Cardinals
There’s speculation Lars Nootbaar will be traded, opening opportunities for younger talent within the Cardinals’ lineup.
Detroit Tigers
Amid a possible playoff contention, the Tigers might trade Skubal while retaining others to keep competitive balance.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies aim to pursue marginal enhancements across the outfield, rotation, and bullpen areas.
Kansas City Royals
The Royals plan to trade two veteran starters, focusing on the team’s future development.
Cleveland Guardians
Lane Thomas could return to the Guardians, providing an upgrade at a historically weak position.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels intend to bring in big-league talent in hopes of remaining competitive despite possibly trading away current players.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers predictably plan to trade for another starting pitcher to bolster their rotation depth.
Houston Astros
Jeremy Peña might be traded as the Astros look to revitalize their farm system amid a challenging season.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs are expected to acquire Reid Detmers, investing in pitching depth for now and the future.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Isaac Paredes could join the Pirates, adding power to their lineup, although fit considerations loom.
Cincinnati Reds
Outfield prospect Héctor Rodríguez is likely to be promoted, facilitating readiness for potential trades.
New York Mets
Luke Weaver may depart due to strong demand in the market for effective late-game relievers.
Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles might entertain offers for Yennier Cano amid their transitional phase, leveraging his current performance for the future.
Atlanta Braves
The Braves look to add a controllable starting pitcher, enhancing their rotation with an eye on sustainable team control.