The MLB trade market is heating up with the differentiation of contenders and those in rebuild mode. The former group includes teams such as the Phillies, Yankees, Dodgers, and Orioles; while the latter includes the White Sox, Athletics, and Marlins. In particular, the Dodgers are in search of “impact-type players”. They’re eyeing Tarik Skubal, the Detroit Tigers’ ace, and Randy Arozarena from the Tampa Bay Rays. There’s a need to revamp the starting rotation and boost the outfield due to subpar performances from their current lineup. Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes confirmed the team is looking for real hitters, to complement the team after the recent signing of free agent Teoscar Hernandez, who has been a surprise hit.
Toronto Blue Jays are open to trade offers for contracted players. The team is reportedly receptive to offers due to being last in the AL East. Right-handed pitcher Chris Bassitt could be a potential trade, alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, who are all bound for free agency post the 2025 season. Moves to strengthen their standing ahead of the trade season may be in order. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay rays could potentially trade Isaac Paredes, Yandy Diaz, and Randy Arozarena, all of whom have had inconsistent performances.
The LA Dodgers and Baltimore Orioles each value Detroit Tigers ace, Tarik Skubal. According to several trade deadline forecasts, both teams are willing to present rich packages to secure Skubal. He is currently 10-3 with a 2.41 ERA this season and still has two years left on his contract. In other news, most teams, including the Orioles, Red Sox, Guardians, Astros, Brewers, Dodgers, and Padres are all in need of starting pitchers. Available options include the likes of Chicago White Sox ace Garrett Crochet and Jack Flaherty from the Tigers.
The NY Mets are in a fantastic position despite a tough challenge. David Stern, the club’s president of baseball operations, must weigh whether to trade from in-depth starting pitchers due to an oversupply. To complicate matters, the team plans to use a six-man rotation. Teams such as the White Sox and Marlins will likely be sellers. However, the Cubs, Rays, and Rangers are evaluating their playoff odds every week, currently fluctuating between 12-17%. The shifting odds could cause them to adapt.
The NY Yankees and LA Dodgers are two top-tier teams, but they are moving in different directions. The Yankees have lost 14 of their last 18 games, while the Dodgers continue to win consistently. Yankees’ bullpen difficulties, coupled with infield challenges, need addressing. The Dodgers also have their issues, like the need for a starting pitcher and reinforcement in the middle infield, following injuries to key players. Both teams intend to make major moves before the MLB trade deadline.
The last potential trade interest involves the Toronto Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr., albeit against the wishes of the club’s general manager. Guerrero is open to joining the NY Yankees, contrary to earlier statements declaring his disinclination towards the Yankees. This shift, coupled with interest in Chicago White Sox’s Luis Robert Jr. from the LA Dodgers, and possibilities around Athletics’ Mason Miller, makes for an interesting trade season. However, Guerrero has clarified that, for now, his focus is on helping his team break its current losing streak.
