MLB Players Expected to Change Teams Before Trade Deadline

Major League Baseball’s July 31 trade deadline is almost here. Every year, this stretch brings a wild rush of roster moves, with teams scrambling to either boost their playoff hopes or start building for the future.

The market’s loaded with both prospects and veterans. A single trade could send shockwaves through a team’s season, and maybe even the league as a whole.

Let’s dig into the biggest names rumored to be on the move. We’ll look at how teams are approaching this deadline and what these trades might mean for everyone involved.

The Big Names to Watch: Potential Stars on the Move

The deadline is when teams try to patch up their weak spots. This year, a handful of players are drawing serious attention—they could end up deciding who makes a deep playoff run and who doesn’t.

Some of these names are already generating plenty of buzz. Fans and insiders are watching closely to see where they might land.

Harry Ford: Seattle’s Blocked Catching Prospect

Harry Ford is one of the more interesting cases. Seattle’s top catching prospect keeps impressing in the minors, but he can’t break through at the major league level right now.

Rumors have Seattle considering a deal that would send Ford out for a corner infielder. That would give the Mariners some roster flexibility and maybe give Ford a real shot elsewhere.

David Bednar: The Pirates’ Potential Blockbuster Trade

David Bednar is a two-time All-Star closer for Pittsburgh, and teams are lining up for him. He’s built a strong reputation as a reliable bullpen anchor.

If the Pirates decide to move him, they could get a big return. Some in the front office probably worry about his value dropping in the future, so now might be the right time to make a move.

Veteran Arms: Strengthening Postseason Rotations

Veteran pitchers always seem to be in demand at the deadline. Playoff contenders want that steady hand in the rotation, and this year’s no exception.

A few experienced arms are already turning heads across the league.

Kelly and Lugo: Reliable Options for Title Contenders

Merrill Kelly (Diamondbacks) and Seth Lugo (Royals) both have teams calling. These guys have shown they can handle the pressure and deliver when it counts.

Clubs looking to make a real push in October would love to add someone like Kelly or Lugo. You can’t really put a price on that kind of reliability, can you?

Teams Resetting for the Future: Trading Valuable Veterans

Some teams know they’re not in the title chase this year. For them, trading away veterans or under-the-radar relievers is a chance to reload and look ahead.

It’s not always flashy, but it’s a smart play for teams in rebuild mode.

O’Hearn and Herget: Orioles and Rockies Eye Future Gains

The Orioles and Rockies are classic examples of this. Baltimore’s Ryan O’Hearn and Colorado’s Herget are both putting up good numbers, but their teams might flip them for prospects or draft picks.

By moving on from productive vets, these franchises hope to stock up on young talent and improve their odds down the road.

Risky Decisions: What Will the White Sox Do With Luis Robert Jr.?

The White Sox are in a tough spot with Luis Robert Jr.. He’s been struggling, but there’s still some upside there that could tempt another team.

Chicago’s front office has to decide whether to keep him or move on and avoid picking up his $20 million option. It’s a big call that could steer the club’s future in a new direction.

Other Notable Trade Chips: From the Prospects to Role Players

Not every deal will involve a superstar. The deadline always brings a wave of solid contributors who end up making a difference somewhere else.

• Willi Castro of the Twins, who can play all over the field
• Marcell Ozuna of the Braves, a bat with real postseason pop
• Phil Maton of the Cardinals, steady in relief

Teams like the Red Sox and Yankees might even move blocked prospects to fill immediate needs. These kinds of trades are low-risk but could pay off in a big way, especially for clubs balancing the future with right-now demands.

Balancing Contention and Rebuilding: The Deadline’s Theme

Teams chase playoff spots or plan for future seasons. The trade deadline turns into a chessboard of strategic moves.

Every roster decision matters, whether you’re talking about top prospects or seasoned veterans. One move can tip the balance between short-term hopes and long-term growth.

Maybe a team grabs a difference-maker for October. Or maybe they sell a star before his skills start fading.

Sometimes blocked players get traded for immediate help. Each deal can shift the direction of a franchise.

 
Here is the source article for this story: One player from each MLB franchise who will be wearing a new uniform by July 31