MLB teams eye trades ahead of Monday deadline as pitching shortages mount
Several clubs, including the Cubs, Yankees and Phillies, are targeting pitchers and other key positions before the June 6 trade deadline, hoping to strengthen their rosters for a postseason push.
Major League Baseball clubs are actively evaluating trade options ahead of the 6 p.m. ET deadline on Monday as they seek to address roster gaps that could affect their postseason chances. The Chicago Cubs, hampered by injuries to starter Cade Horton and a setback for Justin Steele, are reportedly looking for any starting-pitching help, with names such as Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes and Robbie Ray mentioned as potential targets. The White Sox, dealing with catcher Kyle Teel’s ankle injury and a high ERA from fifth starter Noah Schultz, are said to be interested in catchers like Kyle Stephenson and Jose Trevino, as well as a starting-pitcher upgrade.
The New York Yankees, coping with injuries to Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger, prioritize acquiring a bullpen arm and a right-handed hitter. Reported targets include relievers Mason Miller and Adrian Morejon, and first-baseman Ryan Jeffers, pending a trade from the Minnesota Twins. The Atlanta Braves are monitoring the Detroit Tigers for possible deals involving starting pitchers such as Tarik Skubal or Casey Mize, while the Tampa Bay Rays, despite a strong rotation, are also linked to Skubal as a potential addition.
The Seattle Mariners, whose offense has struggled against left-handed pitching, are said to be seeking a right-handed bat to boost their lineup. The Philadelphia Phillies, strong when their top three starters pitch, are expected to add a veteran starter and a reliever after injuries to Aaron Nola and Brad Keller. The Milwaukee Brewers, after a strong showing last season, may look for another starter to complement Jacob Misiorowski, with options ranging from Freddy Peralta to Robbie Ray.
Other clubs with identified needs include the Pittsburgh Pirates, who require bullpen reinforcement; the Texas Rangers, seeking relief depth without large financial commitments; the Cleveland Guardians, open to offensive upgrades; and the Boston Red Sox, still searching for a shortstop despite acquiring Curtis Mead earlier in the season. Executives across the league are expected to be aggressive in negotiations as the deadline approaches.