The 2025 MLB trade deadline is already shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, and not necessarily for the right reasons. With many of the league’s top stars removed from trade rumors due to extensions or their teams’ playoff ambitions, the market appears thin on blockbuster potential.
However, the scarcity of superstar rentals could force teams to get creative. This deadline is a fascinating window into the game’s evolving strategy.
Here, we break down the players, teams, and scenarios that will define the trade deadline frenzy as July 31 looms ever closer.
Superstars Off the Market: Extensions and Contenders Take the Spotlight
One of the main reasons for this year’s subdued trade buzz is the absence of big-name superstars available for rental deals. The Toronto Blue Jays have locked down Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with a long-term extension, removing the top potential headline player from trade discussions.
Other marquee names approaching free agency, like Houston’s Kyle Tucker and Arizona’s Zac Gallen, are firmly entrenched on teams positioned for playoff contention. This limits their availability for trade talks.
American League Teams Eye Opportunity
The American League in particular is anticipated to see a crowded playoff race. Teams hovering in the wild-card standings may be tempted to make modest additions, provided they can find trade partners.
Typically aggressive buyers may need to lower their sights or resort to creative trades to bolster their rosters.
Sandy Alcantara: The Crown Jewel of Trade Deadline Assets
Despite the lack of superstar rentals, one name stands out above the rest—Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins. The former Cy Young winner has a contract that runs through 2026, which ensures that any team trading for him acquires more than just a short-term rental.
Though Alcantara is working his way back from Tommy John surgery, his potential as a frontline starter makes him the most intriguing trade asset of the deadline. If the Marlins decide to move him, it could spark a bidding war among contenders.
Other High-Profile Players to Watch
Beyond Alcantara, several notable names could command attention under the right circumstances. The Chicago White Sox’s Luis Robert Jr., assuming he recaptures his All-Star form, could be an appealing trade chip.
St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado’s strong first half makes him a candidate, but his hefty contract may discourage interest from teams looking to stay under the luxury-tax threshold.
Veteran Contributors and Fringe Buyers: The Trade Market’s Foundation
With fewer impact superstars available, this year’s trade market will likely revolve around veterans and fringe contenders. Teams like the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, who are out of contention, will look to trade expiring contracts.
Potential names to monitor include Kyle Farmer, Andrew Heaney, and Tommy Pham. While their value may be modest, these types of players often become essential depth additions for playoff-bound teams.
Fringe Teams Offering Value
Even teams hovering on the outer edge of contention, such as the Oakland A’s, Minnesota Twins, and Tampa Bay Rays, could decide to cash in. Relief pitchers like Oakland’s Justin Sterner, Minnesota’s Jhoan Duran, or versatile position players such as Tampa Bay’s Brandon Lowe could all find their way to contenders, provided the price is right.
Unpredictability Reigns: Wildcards and Creative Trades
With a lack of obvious marquee names, attention may shift to unforeseen collapses or unusual trade formats, including MLB-player-for-MLB-player deals. If teams like the Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, Seattle Mariners, or even Houston Astros falter, veteran stars such as Zach Eflin, Marcell Ozuna, Logan Gilbert, and Framber Valdez could quickly hit the trade block.
Other intriguing options, such as Michael Lorenzen (Kansas City Royals), Chris Bassitt, and Bo Bichette (Blue Jays), could emerge if their respective teams fall out of contention.
Prospect Capital Fuels the Powerhouses
Perennial powerhouses like the Cubs, Yankees, Red Sox, and Rangers have the farm system depth to pull off major trades. These clubs may be well-positioned to offer prospect-heavy packages for a talent like Alcantara or other high-caliber names as they look for game-changing additions.
The Creativity Factor: A Thin Market Sparks Innovation
Ultimately, the 2025 MLB trade deadline will challenge general managers to think outside the box. Without the luxury of renting top-tier stars, contending teams may focus on adding relievers, versatile veterans, or second-tier starters.
Expiring contracts for bullpen arms like Kenley Jansen, Tyler Anderson, or Taylor Rogers could become highly sought-after commodities. The biggest X-factor remains injuries, underperforming players, and teams’ reluctance to trade their top prospects.
Much of the intrigue will come down to how willing teams are to take risks for a postseason push. Whether it’s Alcantara finding a new home or unexpected names hitting the market, creativity may define this year’s trading season.
From creative roster moves to franchise-altering trades, the chess match between contenders and rebuilders is about to heat up in dramatic fashion. Don’t be surprised if we see front offices exploring unorthodox ways to win now while planning for the future.
Here is the source article for this story: Early MLB 2025 trade deadline preview: Player most likely to be traded for all 30 teams
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