MLB trade deadline approaches as teams weigh top prospects and rentals

The 2026 Major League Baseball trade deadline is set for 6 p.m. ET on Monday, Aug. 3, with Commissioner Rob Manfred able to choose any day between July 28 and Aug. 3. This year’s deadline falls on a light schedule, featuring only eight games.

Because most clubs remain within striking distance of a postseason berth, the market is expected to feature clear buyers, clear sellers, and many teams in a middle ground. Analysts have listed the 25 players most likely to be dealt, ranking them by likelihood of movement and demand.

Detroit’s two leading starters, Tarik Skubal and Casey Mize, are considered rentals despite recent strong outings. Skubal, returning from NanoScope elbow surgery, has shown Cy Young-level form, while Mize has performed well after a groin injury. Both could give the Tigers leverage in the starting-pitcher market.

The Orioles’ outfielder Taylor Ward is identified as the most coveted rental bat, offering solid on-base skills and potential power upside. The team could also move left-hander Trevor Rogers and reliever Andrew Kittredge.

New York’s Mets may look to move pitcher Freddy Peralta, who has been inconsistent, and reliever Clay Holmes, who has not pitched since a broken leg. Both are expected to fetch returns, with the Cubs and Phillies cited as likely destinations.

Washington’s shortstop CJ Abrams, under team control through 2028 and enjoying an MVP-caliber season, is listed as a high-value asset that could generate a significant return, possibly to the Rays.

Colorado’s reliever Antonio Senzatela and outfielder Mickey Moniak are also seen as likely trade pieces, given the Rockies’ poor record and the players’ rental status.

Boston’s Red Sox could explore deals for reliever Aroldis Chapman and starter Sonny Gray, though Gray’s full no-trade clause may complicate matters.

Minnesota’s catcher Ryan Jeffers, returning from hamate surgery, and starter Joe Ryan are noted as potential trade targets, with the Yankees and Padres mentioned as fits.

San Francisco’s second baseman Luis Arraez and pitcher Robbie Ray are highlighted as rentals performing well, attracting interest from the Rangers and Diamondbacks respectively.

Other notable candidates include Kansas City’s outfielder Lane Thomas, Cincinnati’s third baseman Eugenio Suárez and pitcher Brady Singer, St. Louis’s outfielder Lars Nootbaar and pitcher Dustin May, Seattle’s starter Luis Castillo, and Miami’s reliever Pete Fairbanks and pitcher Sandy Alcantara. Each is linked to teams that could benefit from their skills or contract situations.

The analysis underscores that while only 25 players are listed, many more moves are expected as clubs position themselves for the postseason.