Key Players to Watch in the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

The 2025 MLB trade deadline is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for many teams, with several key players potentially on the move. Here are some of the most significant trade candidates and the teams that could benefit from acquiring them:

Eugenio Suarez: A Power Hitter in Demand

Eugenio Suarez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is having a standout season, boasting a .254/.324/.564 slash line with 26 home runs. His recent 300th career home run has solidified his status as a premier power hitter. With the Diamondbacks likely to trade him, teams like the Detroit Tigers and Seattle Mariners are prime candidates to acquire his services.

Merrill Kelly: A Reliable Starter

Merrill Kelly, also from the Diamondbacks, is a dependable starter with a 2.83 ERA and a knack for striking out batters. His experience and performance make him an attractive option for teams like the St. Louis Cardinals, who are looking to bolster their rotation for a playoff push.

Josh Naylor: A Solution for the Rangers

The Texas Rangers are struggling offensively, and Josh Naylor could be the answer. With a .300 batting average and consistent production, Naylor would provide much-needed support at first base or DH for the Rangers.

Sandy Alcantara: A Potential Ace

Despite a rough start, Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins remains a valuable asset. His recent improvements in June, with a 4.34 ERA, make him a target for teams like the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros, who are in need of rotation depth.

Seth Lugo: A Desperate Move for the Royals

The Kansas City Royals might consider trading Seth Lugo, who has a 2.74 ERA and is signed through next year. Teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays could benefit from his consistent performance.

Emmanuel Clase: A Bargain Closer

The Cleveland Guardians could trade Emmanuel Clase, an elite closer signed through 2028. The Philadelphia Phillies, in need of bullpen help, could be a perfect fit for his services.

Ryan O'Hearn: A Versatile Bat

The Baltimore Orioles might trade Ryan O'Hearn, who has a .312/.398/.518 slash line against right-handers. The San Francisco Giants, struggling at first base, could greatly benefit from his offensive prowess.

Marcell Ozuna: A Potential Boost for the Padres

The Atlanta Braves could trade Marcell Ozuna, who despite a recent slump, has a .369 OBP. The San Diego Padres, in need of a DH, could see a significant boost in their offense with his addition.

Felix Bautista: A Bullpen Upgrade for the Mets

The New York Mets could target Felix Bautista from the Baltimore Orioles to strengthen their bullpen. Bautista’s control and low salary make him an attractive option for the Mets.

David Bednar: A Closer for the Rays

The Pittsburgh Pirates might trade David Bednar, who has a 1.95 ERA and a 37.4% strikeout rate. The Tampa Bay Rays, in need of bullpen depth, could find him to be a valuable addition.

Ryan McMahon: A Defensive Asset

The Colorado Rockies could trade Ryan McMahon, a top defensive third baseman. The Cincinnati Reds, struggling at third base, could greatly benefit from his skills.

Willi Castro: A Versatile Utility Player

The Minnesota Twins might trade Willi Castro, a versatile player with an above-average OPS+. The New York Yankees, in need of lineup flexibility, could find him to be a valuable asset.

Charlie Morton: A Veteran Starter

The Los Angeles Angels could target Charlie Morton from the Baltimore Orioles for rotation help. Morton’s recent 2.90 ERA over his last six starts makes him a viable option.

Shelby Miller: A Bullpen Addition

The Milwaukee Brewers could add Shelby Miller to bolster their bullpen. Miller’s $1 million salary makes him a cost-effective option for the Brewers.

Walker Buehler: A Potential Reclamation Project

The Boston Red Sox might trade Walker Buehler, who has struggled with a 6.45 ERA. A team willing to take a chance on his postseason experience could find him to be a valuable addition.

Adrian Houser: A Hot Commodity

The Chicago White Sox could trade Adrian Houser, who has a 1.91 ERA in seven starts. Teams in need of pitching depth could greatly benefit from his services.

Michael Soroka: A Potential Reliever

The Washington Nationals might trade Michael Soroka, who has shown potential as a reliever. His strikeout and walk rates make him an attractive option for teams in need of bullpen help.

Luis Urias: A Bench Option

The Oakland Athletics could trade Luis Urias, a versatile journeyman. Contenders in need of a bench player could find him to be a valuable addition.