MLB trade deadline approaches with several teams targeting pitchers and position players

Teams are actively exploring trade options as the July 31 deadline nears. The Boston Red Sox are reportedly seeking a shortstop, while the Los Angeles Angels are said to be open to offers for outfielder Michael Neto but are focusing on retaining starters Reid Detmers and José Soriano. The Washington Nationals have indicated willingness to consider bids for outfielder Aaron Abrams, who may command a higher return despite having one fewer year before free agency.

The Detroit Tigers' left-handed starter Tarik Skubal is a focal point of speculation. Insider Jon Heyman reported that the Dodgers claim their rotation will soon include Blake Snell, Shohei Ohtani and Tyler Glasnow, yet rival clubs fear Los Angeles could intervene if Detroit lists Skubal. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand said the Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays are among the teams most interested in the pitcher. Detroit’s playoff odds have slipped below 25% after a recent three-game losing streak, leaving the Tigers on the fringe of AL wild-card contention.

Chicago’s Cubs, who have a pressing need for a reliable starter, recently designated Jameson Taillon for assignment after two poor outings. Their current rotation features Matthew Boyd, Shota Imanaga, Colin Rea and David Peterson, with Javier Assad likely to fill Taillon’s spot. While the club’s front office typically favors long-term roster building, President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer indicated a willingness to make a significant deadline move if it improves the team’s chances for a postseason first-round bye.

Potential rental options for Chicago include right-handers Robbie Ray, Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes (who has an opt-out clause) and Kevin Gausman. Controllable arms such as Detmers or Soriano, both under contract through 2028, could also be targets. The Cubs have also been linked to a young catcher, prospect Owen Ayers, as part of a possible trade with the Angels.

In the American League Central, the Chicago White Sox, after years of losing records, now lead the division but still require pitching depth. The team has expressed interest in acquiring a rental starter like Clay Holmes, though a controllable pitcher such as Detmers may better suit their emerging contention window.

Overall, the trade market remains fluid, with several clubs weighing short-term upgrades against long-term roster considerations as the deadline approaches.