Six MLB clubs identified as likely sellers ahead of Aug. 4 trade deadline, 20 players flagged for moves
Analysts say the Angels, Athletics, Giants, Mets, Rockies and Royals are the only teams poised to be near-certain sellers, highlighting 20 players who could be traded before the 2026 deadline.
An analysis of the 2026 season notes that 24 teams are within six and a half games of a postseason spot, but only six clubs – the Los Angeles Angels, Oakland Athletics, San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, Colorado Rockies and Kansas City Royals – are considered likely sellers as the August 4 trade deadline approaches. While many star players could end up on the trade block, the report identifies a list of 20 players from those clubs who are expected to change teams in the next two weeks.
The list includes Giants second baseman Luis Arraez, who is hitting .320 with an .805 OPS and ranks second among second basemen in defensive metrics. Arraez, a free agent, has indicated he will not change positions, but clubs seeking middle-infield help are reportedly interested.
Colorado left-hander Brennan Bernardino, who opened the season with a 0.71 ERA and has not allowed an earned run in his last 19 outings, is described as a cost-controlled bullpen option despite being arbitration-eligible for three more years.
Oakland outfielder Carlos Cortes, a 29-year-old with seven home runs and a .787 OPS, is seen as a potential trade chip to acquire pitching depth, while fellow Athletic catcher Jonah Heim, a 2023 Gold Glove winner and former World Series champion, could attract interest from teams needing catching help.
New York Mets pitcher Clay Holmes, returning from a fractured fibula, posted a 2.39 ERA before his injury and is expected to test free agency after the season, making him a likely target.
Other notable names include Giants right-hander Tyler Mahle, who improved to a 3.76 ERA after returning from a hamstring injury; Rockies outfielder Jake McCarthy, who has posted a .859 OPS in 89 games; and Mets relievers A.J. Minter (1.71 ERA) and Brooks Raley (1.96 ERA), both on expiring contracts.
The report also highlights veteran left-hander Robbie Ray of the Giants, who has a 1.88 ERA over his last eight starts, and Kansas City outfielder Lane Thomas, whose recent surge to a .814 OPS has increased his trade value.
"These players are on the radar of contending clubs looking to bolster depth as they make their playoff pushes," the analysis states.
The list concludes with several pitchers—such as Mets reliever Luke Weaver (1.98 ERA) and Angels reliever Kirby Yates (3.57 ERA)—who could be moved before the deadline, given the league-wide demand for reliable bullpen arms.