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The MLB trade deadline is quickly approaching, and according to ESPN insider Jeff Passan, several contenders are preparing to make major additions.
Passan recently identified nine teams that are expected to be “adding aggressively” before the deadline, signaling that the race for October is about to intensify. Some clubs are looking for a final piece to complete a championship roster, while others are hoping to address glaring weaknesses before the postseason begins.
Here’s a look at the teams expected to be among the busiest buyers.
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National League Contenders Ready to Strike
The Los Angeles Dodgers are rarely quiet at the deadline, and this year appears to be no different. Already one of baseball’s deepest rosters, the Dodgers have been linked to several high-profile players as they continue their annual pursuit of a World Series title.
The Philadelphia Phillies also appear poised to make a splash. With one of the National League’s strongest rotations, Philadelphia is expected to target upgrades that can strengthen an already dangerous roster.
The Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers are both battling for positioning in the NL playoff race, making them logical buyers. Whether it’s another starting pitcher, bullpen help, or an impact bat, both clubs have reasons to be aggressive.
The Atlanta Braves, despite dealing with injuries throughout the season, reportedly aren’t backing down either. If they reach the postseason, they want to arrive with a roster capable of making another deep October run.
American League Buyers Emerging
The New York Yankees are once again expected to be one of the biggest players on the market.
New York has already been connected to several elite pitchers, including Mason Miller, and continues searching for ways to improve both its bullpen and lineup. With World Series expectations every season, standing pat has never been part of the Yankees’ philosophy.
The Seattle Mariners also made Passan’s list as a team expected to pursue upgrades. Their pitching has kept them competitive, but adding more offense could be the difference between simply reaching the playoffs and becoming a legitimate championship contender.
Perhaps the most surprising names are the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox.
Tampa Bay has consistently found creative ways to improve its roster despite operating with financial limitations, while the White Sox appearing on the list suggests they could take a more aggressive approach than many expected.
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Deadline Could Reshape the Playoff Picture
Trade deadlines often produce unexpected blockbusters, but Passan’s report offers an early glimpse into which front offices are preparing to make significant moves.
The nine teams expected to be the most aggressive are:
- Milwaukee Brewers
- Chicago White Sox
- Chicago Cubs
- Philadelphia Phillies
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- Atlanta Braves
- New York Yankees
- Tampa Bay Rays
- Seattle Mariners
With so many contenders actively searching for upgrades, the coming days could feature several franchise-altering trades. Whether it’s an ace, an All-Star reliever, or a middle-of-the-order bat changing uniforms, this year’s deadline has all the ingredients to become one of the busiest and most impactful in recent memory.
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