MLB Trade Deadline Predictions: Top Players Likely to Move

The MLB trade deadline is closing in fast, and honestly, no one seems to know exactly what’s going to happen this year. Twenty-five of the league’s thirty teams still have a shot at the playoffs, so front offices are stuck deciding whether to buy, sell, or just wait it out.

This post digs into an anonymous survey of MLB executives to spotlight the top trade candidates, teams in limbo, and what might actually go down as the deadline creeps closer.

The Top Pitchers on the Trade Block

Starting pitching always dominates the deadline, and 2024 is no exception. Unexpectedly, Marlins’ ace Sandy Alcantara keeps popping up as the most-mentioned name among execs.

He’s struggled this year after Tommy John surgery, but his recent improvement and team-friendly contract make him a tempting target for contenders.

Additional Starting Pitcher Candidates

The starting pitcher market looks deep beyond Alcantara. Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks are drawing plenty of trade buzz too.

Keller could help teams like the Cubs and Mets, who badly need rotation help. Kelly brings steady innings and some upside for clubs needing depth.

If a team wants to gamble on a high ceiling, Alcantara’s the guy, but Keller and Kelly offer safer, more predictable help for the stretch run.

Relief Pitchers: High Demand, Key Names

Bullpens are always a focus for contenders, and this season’s no different. Aroldis Chapman, the flamethrowing lefty with loads of playoff experience, is probably the most likely reliever to move.

The Pirates’ pair of David Bednar and Dennis Santana could also get traded, especially if Pittsburgh decides to sell.

Elite Closers Could Spark Bidding Wars

Veteran relievers like Chapman will get attention, but teams are also eyeing elite closers under team control. Felix Bautista of the Orioles and Mason Miller of the Athletics could fetch a haul, though their clubs would only deal them for a huge return.

The Position Player Landscape

Pitching usually gets the headlines, but teams are always hunting for bats. This year, one big name among hitters is the Diamondbacks’ Josh Naylor.

He’s got legit power, and contenders think he could give their lineups a spark down the stretch.

Other Notable Names on the Market

Other hitters getting attention include the Orioles’ Ryan O’Hearn, White Sox star Luis Robert Jr., and Red Sox speedster Jarren Duran.

Each brings something different—O’Hearn’s patience, Robert Jr.’s all-around game, Duran’s speed and knack for getting on base.

The position player market feels tied to how teams perform over the next few weeks. If the Diamondbacks or Orioles get hot, they might hang onto their bats, which just adds to the overall unpredictability of this deadline.

Which Teams Could Shift Their Approach?

With so many clubs still in the playoff mix, picking a direction isn’t easy. The Pirates, Diamondbacks, and Angels stand out as teams that could change course quickly, depending on how July goes.

They’ve got players in trade rumors, but if they keep winning, they might decide to buy instead.

Deadline Drama May Hinge on the Last Week

Most front offices seem likely to wait until the final days—or maybe even the last hours—before making big moves. The crowded playoff race makes teams hesitant, and there’s always the chance that a few stars get yanked off the market if their teams decide to chase October after all.

Conclusion: Expect the Unexpected

The MLB trade deadline is almost here, and honestly, who really knows what’ll happen? With 25 teams still in the mix and so many unpredictable twists, it feels like anything could go down.

Fans and team execs might want to brace themselves for a wild ride. Maybe we’ll see a Cy Young winner like Sandy Alcantara on the move, or someone like Aroldis Chapman anchoring a new bullpen.

Even big hitters—think Josh Naylor—could end up in a different jersey. One thing’s for sure: these next few weeks are gonna shake things up in the playoff chase.

 
Here is the source article for this story: MLB execs predict Alcantara, Naylor and other players most likely to be traded at deadline