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With the trade deadline in the MLB racing toward us, rumors and nerves are running wild in clubhouses across the league. Teams looking to beef up for the stretch run have their eyes on the hottest names available, while others might take this chance to rebuild and cash in on their top assets. Here’s a look at the best players up for grabs at each position—and the buzz swirling around them in this wild summer.
Catcher: Ryan Jeffers, Minnesota Twins
The catcher spot is hotter than ever. With the Yankees, Red Sox, and Dodgers all desperate for an upgrade behind the plate, Ryan Jeffers of the Twins is the name on everyone’s lips. Jeffers, set to hit free agency soon, is the most attainable catcher out there—guys like Francisco Álvarez or Adley Rutschman are locked up for years. The Twins say they want to compete, but a losing streak could turn them into sellers and put Jeffers (and maybe even Joe Ryan) in the shop window.
Other names to watch: Tyler Stephenson and Jonah Heim, though they’re less likely to move.
First Base: Ty France, San Diego Padres
Ty France has been one of the steals of the year after signing with the Padres for just $1.35 million. With 15 homers, 40 RBIs, and an .887 OPS in 74 games, the 32-year-old vet is a gem for any lineup needing some pop. The Padres are hanging around the Wild Card, but if they decide to sell, France will be one of the first to go—especially with such a thin first base market.
Second Base: Luis Arráez, San Francisco Giants
Venezuelan Luis Arráez is hands-down the hottest name at second base. After a "down" year by his standards, Arráez is back to raking with a .323 average and elite defense. The Giants are out of the race and looking to shed big contracts, so Arráez and Robbie Ray are their top trade chips. One catch: Arráez will only play second base, so his landing spots are limited.
Shortstop: CJ Abrams, Washington Nationals
The most coveted shortstop on the market is CJ Abrams of the Nats. With 24 bombs, 76 RBIs, and an .892 OPS, Abrams is having a career year. Washington is still in the Wild Card hunt, so he’s not a lock to move, but if someone wants to break the bank, Abrams is the top target. Other names like Francisco Lindor or Jeremy Peña have popped up, but don’t bet on them moving.
Third Base: Eugenio Suárez, Cincinnati Reds
Eugenio Suárez isn’t having his best season (.208 average, 13 HR), but his playoff experience and expiring contract make him a bargain for teams looking for cheap power. The Reds could let him go without asking for much, and Suárez could be a sneaky good DH down the stretch.
Left Field: Taylor Ward, Baltimore Orioles
He hasn’t been the slugger the Orioles hoped for, but Taylor Ward is still an on-base machine (.386 OBP, 79 walks). Baltimore is in the Wild Card mix, but if things go south, Ward could be a great fit for teams craving plate discipline.
Center Field: Jake McCarthy, Colorado Rockies
Jake McCarthy is having a breakout year: 10 homers, 56 RBIs, and an .864 OPS. The Rockies aren’t in a rush to move him, but his low salary and team control make him super attractive for rebuilding clubs or anyone needing outfield depth.
Right Field: Spencer Steer, Cincinnati Reds
The Reds’ "Swiss Army knife," Spencer Steer, can play just about anywhere and has two more years of arbitration. Cincinnati is way out of the Wild Card, so if they sell, Steer will be one of the most sought-after for his versatility and offensive upside.
Designated Hitter: Jorge Soler, Los Angeles Angels
Jorge Soler hasn’t exactly lit it up with the Angels, but his October experience and occasional power make him a tempting target for teams looking for a playoff bat. Soler will be a free agent and his salary is manageable, so he could be a fun lottery ticket for a desperate contender.
Right-Handed Starting Pitcher: Clay Holmes, New York Mets
With several starters off the market, Clay Holmes of the Mets is the guy to watch. He started the season hot before a fracture slowed him down, but if he’s back before the deadline, he’ll be one of the most coveted arms. Holmes can opt out after the year, so teams will see him as a rental boost.
Left-Handed Starting Pitcher: Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers
Tarik Skubal has silenced the doubters after surgery and is throwing gas: 2.97 ERA in seven starts since returning. The Tigers are still dreaming of the playoffs, but if they fall out, Skubal will be the "diamond" among lefty starters on the market.
Right-Handed Reliever: Luke Weaver, New York Mets
Luke Weaver has been one of the few bright spots in the Mets bullpen this year (1.98 ERA in 41 innings). With another year of control, New York could flip him for prospects and reload in free agency.
Left-Handed Reliever: Adrian Morejon, San Diego Padres
While everyone’s talking about Mason Miller, lefty Adrian Morejon is the Padres’ most likely reliever to be traded. Morejon is a free agent at season’s end and his power profile makes him a hot commodity for any contender’s bullpen. If San Diego sells, Morejon will be one of the first out the door.
Which teams could make a blockbuster move?
With so many teams still in the Wild Card chase, the MLB trade deadline promises fireworks. The Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers, Padres, and Mets are the franchises to watch—they could be aggressive buyers or, if things go sideways, surprise sellers.
What could shake up the market?
- Last-minute injuries to contenders
- Losing streaks that force teams to sell
- "Dark horse" teams going all-in for a big addition
The countdown is on, and any move could flip the script on the season. Get ready—this MLB trade summer is about to blow up!
MLB Trade Deadline FAQs
When is the 2026 MLB trade deadline?
The trade deadline is August 3, 2026.
Who are the most likely players to be traded?
Luis Arráez, Ty France, Ryan Jeffers, and Adrian Morejon are some of the names most mentioned by insiders and scouts.
Why are some teams hesitant to buy or sell?
With so many teams still in the Wild Card hunt, a lot of GMs prefer to wait until the last minute to decide whether to beef up their roster or plan for the future.
What are teams looking for at the deadline?
Usually, they want bullpen depth, more power in the lineup, and players with short or expiring contracts so they don’t mess up their financial future.
