The MLB trade deadline always ramps up the excitement. Teams chasing a playoff spot scramble to make moves, hoping to find that missing piece for a deep run.
This year’s July 31 deadline looks especially wild. Big names are swirling in trade rumors—dominant closers, power bats, you name it. Some of these guys could absolutely swing the postseason race. Let’s look at six players who might be changing uniforms soon and which teams could really use them.
Emmanuel Clase: Dominant Closer with Postseason Appeal
Emmanuel Clase shuts games down like few others right now. The Guardians’ closer, a three-time All-Star, brings electric stuff and a track record you can’t ignore.
He struggled a bit early but has found his groove again. That makes him a top target for contenders who desperately need bullpen help.
Potential Landing Spots
The Yankees, Phillies, and Cubs all seem interested in Clase. These teams know how crucial late-inning relief is when October rolls around.
- Yankees: Adding Clase to their already strong bullpen could lock down close games even more.
- Phillies: Their relief pitching has been shaky lately—Clase would be a huge upgrade.
- Cubs: Chicago’s aiming for the playoffs, and a top closer might be what gets them there.
Andrew Heaney: A Veteran Starter with Trade Value
Andrew Heaney’s outings haven’t always gone deep lately, but he’s still a steady lefty for the Pirates. He brings experience and knows how to keep games close—something teams crave down the stretch.
Potential Landing Spots
The Dodgers, Cubs, and Tigers reportedly have their eyes on Heaney. Each has rotation issues that a veteran like him could help solve.
- Dodgers: Their rotation’s been shaky, so Heaney could be a stabilizing force in October.
- Cubs: He’d add reliability to Chicago’s staff for those crunch-time games.
- Tigers: Detroit’s young pitchers could use Heaney’s leadership as they chase a wildcard spot.
Ryan O’Hearn: Baltimore’s Surging First Baseman
Ryan O’Hearn is having a breakout year for the Orioles. He made his first All-Star team and is hitting .282 with power and patience.
He’s also solid defensively and can play multiple roles, which makes him even more attractive to contenders.
Potential Landing Spots
The Red Sox, Mariners, Mets, and Giants all need help at first base or DH. O’Hearn fits right in for any of them.
- Red Sox: Boston’s lineup needs a jolt at the bottom, and O’Hearn’s bat could do it.
- Mariners: Seattle’s offense has been inconsistent, so O’Hearn could steady things.
- Mets: Injuries and slumps at first base might push the Mets to make a move for him.
Eugenio Suárez: Power Hitter with Postseason Intentions
Eugenio Suárez of the Diamondbacks is a legit power threat. He’s hit 35 home runs and can change a game in a hurry.
With free agency coming up, teams needing a big bat are definitely circling.
Potential Landing Spots
The Yankees and Tigers are rumored to be in on Suárez. His home run power is just too tempting to pass up.
- Yankees: Another slugger in their lineup would make the Bronx Bombers even scarier in the playoffs.
- Tigers: Detroit could use Suárez’s pop as they try to surprise everyone down the stretch.
Ryan Helsley: Cardinals’ Flame-Throwing Reliever
Ryan Helsley’s fastball hasn’t always cooperated this season, but he’s still one of the most intimidating closers out there. He can overpower just about anyone when it counts.
Potential Landing Spots
The Yankees, Phillies, and Tigers are all watching Helsley closely. They want that extra punch in the bullpen.
- Yankees: If they land both Helsley and Clase, good luck beating them late in games.
- Phillies: Helsley’s velocity could give them a real edge in tight playoff battles.
Josh Naylor: A Complete Hitter Entering Free Agency
Arizona’s Josh Naylor has turned into a well-rounded offensive threat. He’s batting .292 with 11 homers and gives steady production every night.
The Diamondbacks, hit hard by injuries, might move him as they try to reset for next year. Naylor’s name will come up a lot as the deadline approaches.
Potential Landing Spots
Several teams could target Naylor. His balanced approach at the plate would boost any contender.
Here is the source article for this story: 6 players who could be on the move at the MLB trade deadline: Eugenio Suárez, Emmanuel Clase and more
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