Top 25 MLB Players Likely to Move at Trade Deadline

The MLB Trade Deadline always brings anticipation, and this season feels even more unpredictable than usual. With more teams in the playoff hunt thanks to the expanded postseason, front offices are still figuring out whether to buy or sell.

CBS Sports has highlighted the top 25 players who could be on the move by July 31. It’s a fascinating list for fans who love speculating about blockbuster deals and surprise destinations.

Let’s dig into what makes these trade candidates so interesting, and what might tip the scales as July winds down.

A Diverse Trade Market: Rentals, Controllables, and Salary Dumps

This year’s trade market stands out for its variety. Teams have plenty to consider—rentals, controllable assets, or even just clearing salary off the books.

That creates a deep pool of talent for buyers and sellers. It’s hard to predict which direction some clubs will go, and that’s part of the fun.

Impending Free Agents: Rentals That Could Shape the Postseason

Rental players are always in demand at the deadline. They offer playoff teams an instant boost without a long-term commitment.

Baltimore’s Ryan O’Hearn and Arizona’s Josh Naylor are two names to watch. Their bats could light a fire under a contender’s lineup, but only if their teams decide to sell.

Controllable Assets: Big Names with Bigger Upside

Teams looking past 2023 might focus on controllable players like Colorado’s Ryan McMahon or Miami’s Edward Cabrera. McMahon’s trending offense and team-friendly deal could attract the Red Sox, Yankees, or Mets.

Cabrera, meanwhile, offers real upside if a team’s willing to be patient. Controllable talent doesn’t come cheap, but sometimes, it’s worth the risk.

High-Leverage Arms: A Gamechanger for Elite Pitching Needs

Pitching depth is always at a premium, especially for contenders. Milwaukee’s Freddy Peralta could headline the starting pitcher market.

St. Louis’s Ryan Helsley and Pittsburgh’s Mitch Keller might offer bullpen upgrades. One big arm can change the entire postseason picture—sometimes it’s just that one pitch that tips the scale.

Freddy Peralta: An Ace in High Demand

If Milwaukee decides to cash in on their rotation, Peralta becomes a huge name to watch. The Padres, Mets, and Yankees are all reportedly hunting for starting pitching, and Peralta fits the bill.

He’s got experience and a knack for big moments, which is exactly what you want in October.

Bullpen Reinforcements: Helsley and Keller

Relievers rarely get the spotlight, but they’re often playoff heroes. Ryan Helsley brings late-inning firepower, while Mitch Keller’s flexibility as a starter or reliever could be a real asset.

For teams eyeing a deep run, adding one of these arms could make all the difference.

The Wild Cards: Bounce-Back Candidates and Untapped Potential

Some players come with more risk, but also more reward. Miami’s Edward Cabrera and Arizona’s Zac Gallen fit that mold.

Cabrera flashes brilliance, though it’s not always consistent. Gallen, once an ace, is still searching for his old form.

Zac Gallen’s Struggles and Redemption Opportunity

Gallen used to be one of the National League’s brightest young arms, but recent struggles have clouded his outlook. Still, if a team believes in its coaching staff, Gallen might be a perfect buy-low candidate.

It’s a roll of the dice, but sometimes, that’s how you win big.

The Ultimate X-Factor: An Uncertain Trade Environment

The expanded postseason has filled the league with “bubble teams.” A lot of trade talks are just… stuck. Clubs seem to be waiting, trying to figure out if they should buy or sell.

Honestly, it all depends on how the next few games go. Player movement could swing wildly right up to the deadline.

This year’s trade deadline feels especially unpredictable. Fans and teams are on edge, and nobody really knows if stars like Nolan Arenado or Sandy Alcantara will get moved.

Maybe we’ll see a blockbuster, or maybe it’ll be some random name in a late-night deal. July 31 is going to matter way beyond this season, that’s for sure.

Keep an eye out as the deadline creeps closer. Who knows what’s coming? The only thing I’d bet on is that we’re in for plenty of drama—and probably a few surprises too.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Ranking top 25 MLB players who could move at the trade deadline, plus potential landing spots