The 2025 MLB Trade Deadline is creeping closer, and teams are sizing up their rosters. Some want to make a run at the playoffs, while others might just punt and think about next year.
Standings are getting tighter, and new trade candidates keep popping up. From hitters finding their groove again to pitchers dominating, the market feels unpredictable this year.
This piece takes a closer look at some of the biggest question marks and possible movers—players who could change the postseason picture depending on what their teams decide to do.
The Angels’ Dilemma: Buy or Sell?
The Los Angeles Angels sit four games out of a playoff spot. That’s not exactly comfortable, and it puts them in a tricky spot as the deadline approaches.
Most of the chatter focuses on pitcher Tyler Anderson and outfielder Taylor Ward. Both could draw plenty of interest if the Angels decide to sell.
Tyler Anderson’s Stability
Anderson has anchored the Angels’ rotation with a 3.99 ERA in 13 starts. He doesn’t blow hitters away, but he’s reliable—something contenders always seem to want for the middle of their rotation.
If the Angels go into seller mode, Anderson could help a playoff team for a reasonable price. Not flashy, but sometimes that’s exactly what a team needs.
Taylor Ward’s Hot Streak
Taylor Ward has been on a tear lately, and it’s boosted his trade value. He’s hit 10 homers and posted a .942 OPS over his last 27 games.
Teams craving more offense will definitely notice. The Angels have to decide if they want to chase a slim playoff shot or cash in on Ward’s value.
Elite Bullpen Arms On the Block
Relievers always seem to steal the spotlight at the deadline, and this year’s no different. There are some big names out there: David Bednar, Edward Cabrera, Aroldis Chapman, and Kyle Finnegan.
David Bednar Turning It Around
Pirates closer David Bednar struggled early and even landed in Triple-A for a bit. But since returning, he owns a 2.61 ERA and has racked up seven saves.
He’s handled pressure situations before, so teams looking for bullpen help will be interested. Bednar brings both experience and late-inning stability.
Edward Cabrera’s Breakout
Marlins starter Edward Cabrera has been electric, with a 2.03 ERA over his last six starts. He’s young, under team control, and pitching like he belongs at the top of a rotation.
Contenders needing starting depth will line up for him. Cabrera’s recent surge makes him one of the more intriguing names to watch.
Veteran Aroldis Chapman and Kyle Finnegan
Aroldis Chapman still looks nasty out of the Red Sox bullpen, sporting a 1.65 ERA and 11 saves in 12 chances. If Boston fades, he could be on the move.
Kyle Finnegan has quietly turned things around for the Nationals, with a 1.64 ERA and just one walk in his last 11 games. Teams desperate for dependable late-inning arms will have both guys on their list.
Hitters Making Headlines
There’s always a scramble for bats at the deadline. This year, eyes are on Reds outfielder Hays, Diamondbacks’ Merrill Kelly and Eugenio Suárez, plus the Rays’ Zack Littell and Brandon Lowe.
Hays’ Rising Profile
Hays, though currently sidelined with a foot injury, has impressed with a .303 average and six homers in 31 games. If he gets healthy, the Reds will get plenty of calls.
Diamondbacks’ Trade Chips
The Diamondbacks, sitting at 32-34, might decide to sell. Merrill Kelly has quietly become one of the league’s most consistent pitchers, posting a 2.37 ERA over eight starts since May 1.
Eugenio Suárez brings power, with 18 home runs and an .812 OPS. He could be a real difference-maker for teams needing a middle-of-the-order threat.
Tampa Bay’s Calculated Moves
The Rays have a knack for shuffling the deck, and they might move Zack Littell or Brandon Lowe. Littell’s put up a 2.83 ERA over his last 10 starts—pretty impressive.
Brandon Lowe, meanwhile, is red-hot, with a 1.011 OPS in his last 25 games. If Tampa decides to deal, both could bring back a nice haul.
Final Thoughts: Buyers, Sellers, and Game-Changers
The 2025 MLB Trade Deadline is creeping closer, and the market’s buzzing with names that could totally shake up the playoff race. The Angels might decide to sell, dangling guys like Tyler Anderson or Taylor Ward.
Maybe the Red Sox let go of Aroldis Chapman, one of the top closers out there. The Rays? Well, they never seem to sit still, always scheming up another deal.
Fans are in for a wild ride—these next moves could flip everything. Honestly, who really knows what’s coming?
Here is the source article for this story: These trade candidates have seen their stock start to soar
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