Anticipation for the 2025 MLB trade deadline is through the roof. MLB Trade Rumors just dropped its first-ever ranking of the top 40 players most likely to be traded.
This year’s list is a wild mix of big names, hidden gems, and players dealing with contract drama or slumps. Some are established stars; others are just now breaking through.
As playoff hopefuls and rebuilding teams circle, the stories and rumors swirling around these players are only getting juicier. Let’s dig into some of the names and situations getting everyone talking as the deadline creeps closer.
Top of the Trade Chart: Sandy Alcantara and the Miami Marlins
Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara sits atop the list, but it’s not a simple case. Alcantara’s electric fastball grabs attention, yet his up-and-down performances this season have scouts puzzled.
Adding to the confusion, Miami’s recent hot streak leaves the team in a weird spot. Are they ready to sell, or will they hold? Alcantara’s fate feels tied to whatever direction the Marlins choose as the deadline approaches.
The Pirates Duo: Mitch Keller and David Bednar
The Pittsburgh Pirates have two big names in the mix: Mitch Keller and David Bednar. Keller’s become a hot commodity, with teams like the Cubs reportedly sniffing around.
Bednar, on the other hand, is clawing his way back after a rocky start. Both guys offer real upside, and their futures seem tangled up with the Pirates’ long game.
Baltimore Orioles in the Spotlight
Baltimore’s got a couple of intriguing players on the list: Ryan O’Hearn and Cedric Mullins. O’Hearn’s bat is making waves in 2025, and just about any contender could use his pop.
Mullins, usually steady in the outfield, has struggled lately. The Orioles might try to move him now, hoping someone still believes in his upside before his value dips further.
Other Names to Watch
Several other players could shake things up if they move:
- Andrew Heaney and Dennis Santana (Pirates): Both bring something different to the table—Heaney’s been around, Santana’s got team control.
- Ryan McMahon and Jake Bird (Rockies): Big talent, but the inconsistency is real. Maybe a new uniform helps?
- Seth Lugo (Royals): He could be a huge get, though there’s that pesky player option to sort out.
- Marcell Ozuna (Braves) and Michael Soroka (Nationals): Ozuna’s lost some power, but both guys have playoff experience that could steady a shaky roster.
Whether it’s versatility or raw skill, these names could make this deadline one to remember.
Rockies’ German Márquez: A Significant Bounceback
German Márquez had a rough start, but lately he’s looked sharp. Scouts are starting to wonder what he could do somewhere else.
With Colorado probably eyeing the future, a Márquez deal might boost his career and help the Rockies stock up for what’s next.
White Sox Pitching Arsenal
The Chicago White Sox are back in the trade talk again. This year, Aaron Civale and Adrian Houser are their two arms on the block.
They’re not headline-grabbers, but their availability shows the Sox want affordable returns and a bit more stability in the rotation. Sometimes, that’s all you need.
An Unpredictable Deadline Lies Ahead
The 2025 MLB trade deadline isn’t just unpredictable—it’s packed with an unusually wide mix of talent on the market. From guys with contracts about to expire to those still locked into team-friendly deals, contenders have their work cut out for them.
Teams will be hunting for the perfect fit, whether that means a fresh arm for the rotation or a bat with some real pop. As we inch toward August, you can bet the trade action will only heat up.
Sandy Alcantara sits at the top of the rankings, adding a whole lot of suspense to the mix. Still, some of the biggest shocks might come from names further down the list.
Some clubs are bound to walk away as deadline winners. Others might just lean into a rebuild and cash in their chips for the future.
Curious about the full ranking and more detailed analysis? [Check out the complete list here](https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/07/top-40-trade-candidates-for-the-2025-deadline.html).
Here is the source article for this story: Top 40 Trade Candidates For The 2025 Deadline
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