The upcoming MLB offseason looks like it could be one of the wildest in recent memory. High-profile trade candidates and marquee free agents are already grabbing headlines everywhere.
We’re seeing record-breaking contract projections and some rumors that honestly seem too wild to believe. Front offices across the league are bracing for a winter of tough negotiations that might shake up quite a few franchises before Opening Day even arrives.
Tarik Skubal: The Trade That Could Break Records
One name that’s really turning heads is Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. Extension talks have apparently broken down, so now a blockbuster deal feels more likely than ever.
Skubal’s next contract could top $400 million—a number that would completely upend what pitchers usually get paid and cement his spot among the game’s elite. The Tigers are eyeing big-spending teams for trade partners, and the Mets, Dodgers, Red Sox, Yankees, and Giants are all reportedly in the mix.
Big-Market Teams in the Hunt
Detroit fans obviously want to keep their ace, but the return from a major market club might just be too tempting. Skubal’s dominance and ability to stay healthy make him the kind of pitcher who can change a pennant race.
If he moves, it could set the tone for the entire offseason. You get the feeling everyone’s waiting to see what happens here.
Pitching Talent Flooding the Market
The trade buzz doesn’t stop with Skubal. Several other pitchers who just had strong seasons or come with team control are showing up in rumors, giving contenders plenty of options.
Freddy Peralta and the Burnes Blueprint
Milwaukee Brewers star Freddy Peralta just had his best year yet. Even though he’s on a team-friendly deal, Milwaukee might follow their Corbin Burnes playbook and deal him while his value’s sky-high.
Teams searching for a strikeout artist with playoff experience will find Peralta pretty intriguing.
Hunter Greene’s Potential Despite Durability Concerns
Cincinnati Reds fireballer Hunter Greene has the talent to anchor a franchise. But with his injury history, the Reds might at least listen to trade offers.
He’s under control through 2029, so for any team willing to roll the dice on his health, there’s major long-term upside.
MacKenzie Gore: Nationals’ New Era
In Washington, new president Paul Toboni is shaking things up, and All-Star lefty MacKenzie Gore is suddenly showing up in trade talks. He’s got two years before free agency, and his mix of youth, proven results, and rotation stability makes him a hot commodity.
Position Players Drawing Heavy Interest
Pitchers might dominate the chatter, but some position players are also catching the eye of contenders. Each one could give a lineup a real shot in the arm.
Jarren Duran’s Breakout Year
Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran turned heads in 2024, flashing speed, defense, and a jolt of offense. Trading him would take a massive offer, but his athleticism and age make him a real target.
Veteran Experience and Upside Plays
Miami’s Sandy Alcantara came back from Tommy John surgery looking a lot like his old Cy Young self. St. Louis ace Sonny Gray might consider waiving his no-trade clause if he sees a legit shot at the postseason.
Teams craving short-term impact over long-term control will be watching these guys closely.
Other Names to Watch
The next tier of trade candidates includes some interesting names who could help teams retool fast:
- Brandon Lowe (Tampa Bay) – Power at second base and postseason experience.
- Alec Bohm (Philadelphia) – Corner infielder who just keeps hitting.
- Jo Adell (Los Angeles Angels) – Former top prospect who still has a lot of untapped potential.
With contracts, health, and team direction all in play, this offseason feels like it could go off the rails in the best way. The hot stove is about to get wild, and fans should probably buckle up.
Impact Across the League
Every club—whether they’re rebuilding or chasing the World Series—is scrambling for an edge. These trades are about to shake up the whole league.
When spring training rolls around, rosters might look nothing like they did in October. It’s honestly hard to predict who will end up where.
The offseason feels like it’s about to get wild. Fans should probably brace themselves for high-stakes moves and the kind of drama you only see in the MLB winter market.
Here is the source article for this story: Tarik Skubal heads the top 10 MLB stars most likely to be traded this offseason
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