MLB Trade Rumors Heat Up Ahead of August Deadline
Teams across the American League are actively exploring deals as the trade deadline approaches, with notable interest in catchers, pitchers and shortstops.
Baltimore is fielding inquiries about catcher Adley Rutschman despite his left-wrist inflammation, and sources say at least one executive believes the Orioles are willing to move him, while two others estimate a 60% chance of a trade. The club, which has already added catcher Jake Rogers and sent starter Dean Kremer to Minnesota, is also considering other controllable players such as second baseman Jackson Holliday and outfielder Colton Cowser, according to reports.
In Seattle, the Mariners are reportedly open to trading from their starting-pitcher depth to address needs for a bat and a reliever, with right-hander George Kirby—who has a 4.10 ERA and two years of control—among the names being discussed.
Detroit’s left-hander Tarik Skubal has drawn interest after the Tigers’ recent loss to Baltimore, but the club has not yet entered serious negotiations, according to sources familiar with the situation. The Tigers have begun preliminary talks about potential prospect packages to gauge market interest.
San Diego’s closer Mason Miller, acquired last season, is not expected to be moved, with teams indicating the asking price would be prohibitive.
The Los Angeles Angels appear more receptive to offers on their top controllable arms, Reid Detmers and José Soriano, and may also entertain bids for shortstop Zach Neto. Sources say there is “significant interest” in Detmers.
Shortstop demand remains limited; while CJ Abrams and Jeremy Peña have been linked to trade talks, both clubs have indicated they are not available. The Boston Red Sox have been linked to Neto, Abrams, Peña and Miami’s Otto Lopez, but talks with the Marlins have stalled over price.
Second-base batting champion Luis Arraez, a pending free agent, has attracted limited interest, with the Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies identified as possible suitors.
The New York Yankees are actively scouting the market for right-handed catchers and offensive upgrades, and have also been mentioned in connection with Skubal.
Minnesota has continued its buyer approach, adding reliever A.J. Minter from the Mets and acquiring Kremer from Baltimore, and is now seeking a right-handed, late-inning reliever.
Houston is exploring options for a left-handed hitting outfielder, with interest in the Cardinals’ Lars Nootbaar, Toronto’s Daulton Varsho and Colorado’s Mickey Moniak.