NL contenders assess trade-deadline moves ahead of Dodgers showdown
Milwaukee, Atlanta, Chicago and Philadelphia are evaluating roster upgrades before the Aug. 3 deadline as they aim to improve their chances against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the postseason.
As the 2026 MLB season reaches the trade deadline, four National League teams are weighing options to strengthen their rosters for a potential postseason clash with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers lead the NL West by 12 games and are on pace for a 14th straight playoff appearance.
The Philadelphia Phillies, holding the NL East title, are looking for additional starting-pitching depth and bullpen reinforcement. With a strong top three rotation but a high ERA from Aaron Nola, the club may target pitchers on expiring contracts such as Robbie Ray or Kevin Gausman to add a fourth starter. Injuries to reliever Brad Keller and a historically weak performance against left-handed pitching also create a market for a right-handed bat, according to baseball operations president Dave Dombrowski.
The Chicago Cubs, occupying a wild-card spot, need a reliable third starter and further bullpen help. While Matthew Boyd and Shota Imanaga have performed well, the team may explore acquiring a controllable arm like Los Angeles Angels starter Reid Detmers, leveraging in-field depth for trade assets. The Cubs’ bullpen is strained by injuries to Hoby Milner and closer Daniel Palencia, prompting additional reliever interest.
The Atlanta Braves, leading the NL East, seek a playoff-caliber starter to complement Chris Sale and additional hitting depth. General manager Alex Anthopoulos may consider options such as Tarik Skubal if he becomes available, while also addressing bullpen needs after the injury to Robert Suarez. The recent return of Ronald Acuña Jr. strengthens the outfield, but the Braves remain open to further upgrades.
The Milwaukee Brewers, atop the NL Central, are evaluating whether to trade from their top-ranked farm system, including prospect Jesus Made, to acquire a high-impact pitcher that can pair with Jacob Misiorowski. Left-handed reliever Kyle Harrison’s return from injury offers some relief, but the team may still pursue a left-handed bullpen arm or additional batting help. Acquiring a veteran starter such as Freddy Peralta is also mentioned as a possible move.
All four clubs face the challenge of balancing short-term postseason goals with long-term roster construction as the deadline approaches.