The MLB trade deadline is creeping up, and the rumor mill’s working overtime as teams scramble to figure out what they need for the stretch run. Kansas City Royals‘ right-hander Seth Lugo, 35, is suddenly a name everyone’s tossing around.
Lugo’s future in Kansas City? Well, it’s murky. The Royals are juggling short-term hopes with long-term plans, and they’ve made it clear: if they move Lugo, they want controllable outfield talent in return.
Let’s try to break down what might actually happen as the talks pick up.
Kansas City Royals: Seth Lugo, Trade Options, and Rotational Challenges
The Royals are staring down some tough choices with Lugo. He’s been a steadying force in their rotation, but nobody seems sure if he’ll stick around much longer.
Most expect Lugo to decline his $15 million player option for 2026 and test free agency. The Royals could try a qualifying offer, but trading him now—while his value’s up—has its appeal.
But they’re not desperate. If they’re giving up Lugo, they want a real return, not just a quick fix.
Why the Royals Are Hesitant to Move Lugo
Kansas City’s rotation is already thin, thanks to injuries to Michael Lorenzen and Cole Ragans. Trading Lugo would make things even tougher on the mound.
That’s why the front office is hesitant. If they deal Lugo, they want controllable outfield help that fits their long-term vision.
Boston’s Jarren Duran is an interesting target. He’s got speed, upside, and a contract that works for a team building for the future.
But the Red Sox probably aren’t dealing Duran for just a rental like Lugo. They’d want prospects, too—and that puts the Royals in a bind. How much do you give up to get what you need?
Other Potential Trade Dynamics Around the League
While Kansas City weighs its options, other teams are tangled up in their own deadline messes. Minnesota, Houston, and plenty of others are dealing with injuries, contract headaches, and money issues that could shake up the market.
Twins Contemplate Moving Club-Controlled Pitching Talent
The Twins have hinted they might move big names like Joe Ryan, Jhoan Duran, and Griffin Jax—all guys with team control. But with the team possibly up for sale, the front office is playing it safe.
They’re more likely to shop pending free agents like Chris Paddack and Ty France, not gut the roster entirely.
Houston Astros Navigate Key Injuries and Deadline Needs
The Astros have been hit hard by injuries to Lance McCullers Jr. and Isaac Paredes. Now, they’re looking for pitching help—fast.
They might also chase a third baseman or a lefty-hitting second baseman, depending on how things shake out. Houston could get aggressive if the right deal pops up.
Additional Rumors: Marlins and Angels Join the Mix
Over in the National League, the Miami Marlins are getting calls about center fielder Dane Myers. He’s a top defender with four years of team control, so he won’t come cheap.
The Marlins aren’t rushing. They’re content to wait and see if the right offer comes along.
The Angels, meanwhile, probably won’t blow it all up, but they could move some pending free agents. Tyler Anderson, Kenley Jansen, Luis Rengifo, and Yoan Moncada are names to watch for teams looking to bulk up for October.
What’s Next for the Royals—and the League?
The MLB trade deadline is almost here, and the Kansas City Royals face a real crossroads. They might deal Seth Lugo, or maybe they’ll hang onto him—it all depends on how the market shakes out and just how desperate the contenders get for a solid arm.
There’s interest in Boston’s Jarren Duran. Meanwhile, Kansas City isn’t chasing Bryan Reynolds from the Pittsburgh Pirates. It looks like they’re sticking to a careful, strategic plan, not just making moves for the sake of it.
Elsewhere, teams like the Twins, Astros, Marlins, and Angels are wrestling with their own issues. The deadline is sure to bring the usual chaos and maybe a few curveballs. Will contenders pony up for controllable talent? Could some veteran stars pack their bags for new cities? Who knows, but it’s worth keeping an eye on as the trade chatter heats up.
Here is the source article for this story: Rosenthal: What I’m hearing about the Royals, Twins and Astros’ trade deadline plans and more
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