Angels, Cubs and Others Explore Trade Options Ahead of July Deadline

The Los Angeles Angels are reportedly preparing to trade right-handed starters Reid Detmers and José Soriano, and could also move power-hitting shortstop Zach Neto before the July trade deadline. Sources close to interim general manager John Mozeliak told ESPN that he is “very open to trading controllable players if the right offers materialize.”

Neto, a 25-year-old with three years of team control, has posted 19 home runs this season and ranks fifth in WAR among shortstops who have played at least half their games at the position since the start of 2024, according to Baseball-Reference. The Boston Red Sox, who have an injured shortstop on the roster, are said to view Neto as a strong fit, per reports from The Athletic.

The Chicago Cubs, facing a need for a top-of-the-rotation arm, are linked to several pitchers. While the club has been mentioned in connection with Tarik Skubal, Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer indicated a preference for a starter who will remain under club control beyond the current season. Potential targets include controllable arms such as Robbie Ray, Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes, Kevin Gausman, and Mariners right-hander Emerson Hancock, who is under contract through 2030. The Cubs also have interest in bullpen help, with the Mets’ Luke Weaver noted as a possible acquisition.

Mets right-hander Clay Holmes, who is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment in High-A Brooklyn, remains a trade candidate. He can opt out of his contract after the season, and while he expressed openness to an extension with the Mets, sources suggest a trade is more likely.

In Washington, the Nationals are evaluating the future of left-hander Foster Griffin, who signed a one-year, $5.5 million deal after a stint in Japan and has posted a 2.68 ERA with a 1.03 WHIP this season. Executives from rival teams believe a trade for Griffin may be imminent.