Potential Blockbusters and Key Trade Chips Ahead of the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline

Struggling Teams’ Trade Chips: Who’s on the Block?

The Toronto Blue Jays, despite boasting a formidable rotation that has amassed 196.66 innings pitched and 152 strikeouts, have endured a disappointing start to the 2026 campaign.

As they evaluate their options, outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who has struggled with a .125 batting average and just one hit in eight at-bats, and starting pitcher José Berríos, who allowed 160 hits and 86 runs over 161.1 innings in 2025, could find themselves on the trading block.

The Seattle Mariners, with a team strikeout total of 223 and 213.33 innings pitched, may entertain offers for outfielder Jarred Kelenic, who hit just .167 with two home runs in 60 at-bats last season, and reliever Paul Sewald, who has posted a 3.0 ERA and 23 decisions in 7.4 innings this year.

The Philadelphia Phillies, whose pitching staff has recorded 184 strikeouts and 196 innings, could part ways with infielder Bryson Stott, who has a .210 batting average and no home runs in 62 at-bats, or outfielder Brandon Marsh, who has hit .264 with two homers and 11 RBIs in 72 at-bats.

As for the Boston Red Sox, The complication is that Severino has a $22 million player option for 2027 that he might exercise. “Severino“, making outfielder Alex Verdugo, who hit .238 with no home runs in 197 at-bats in 2025, a potential trade candidate.

Potential Blockbuster Deals to Watch

While some teams may be sellers, others could seize the opportunity to bolster their rosters for a postseason push. The Oakland Athletics, known for their willingness to make bold moves, could either add or subtract at the deadline, depending on their position in the standings.

The Baltimore Orioles boast a group of upper-level starting pitching prospects, with their staff accumulating 224 strikeouts and 205.33 innings pitched, making them an intriguing trade partner for teams seeking rotation reinforcements.

Additionally, the Boston Red Sox, whose pitchers have recorded 198 strikeouts and 193.33 innings, may explore infield upgrades, particularly at shortstop or third base, to solidify their lineup.

If the New York Mets’ slow start persists, they could potentially make pitchers Freddy Peralta, who allowed 19 hits and 12 earned runs in 25.5 innings with a 4.24 ERA, and Clay Holmes, who has a 2.01 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 22.3 innings, available, creating a potential blockbuster scenario.

Rebuilding Franchises’ Tough Decisions

For teams in the midst of a rebuild, the trade deadline presents a delicate balancing act.

The Oakland Athletics, for instance, must weigh the benefits of acquiring future assets against the potential impact of retaining their core players for a playoff push.

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Similarly, the Baltimore Orioles, whose pitching staff has racked up 224 strikeouts and 205.33 innings, face a tough decision regarding their surplus of starting pitching prospects as they navigate the path towards contention.

These franchises must carefully evaluate their long-term plans and determine whether trading established talents or holding onto their young core better serves their rebuilding efforts.

Contenders’ Pursuit of Missing Pieces

Contending teams will undoubtedly be active at the trade deadline, seeking the final pieces to solidify their championship aspirations.

The Los Angeles Angels, despite their offseason acquisitions of Grayson Rodriguez, who struck out 130 batters in 114.1 innings with a 4.08 ERA in 2024, and Alek Manoah, who posted a 3.85 ERA and 26 strikeouts in 23.4 innings that same year, may still pursue additional starting pitching depth.

Their rotation currently features Yusei Kikuchi, who has allowed 28 hits and 15 earned runs in 23.3 innings with a 5.79 ERA, and José Soriano, who boasts a 0.28 ERA and 39 strikeouts in 32.2 innings.

The Angels may also address their bullpen, center field, and potentially third base, depending on discussions with Anthony Rendon, who hit .218 with no home runs in 206 at-bats in 2024.

Teams like the Kansas City Royals, who are seeking outfield upgrades, could also be active on the trade market, potentially parting ways with starting pitcher Kris Bubic, who has a 4.05 ERA and 26 strikeouts in 22.2 innings, to facilitate such moves.

Deadline Drama: Last-Minute Moves That Could Shake Up the Pennant Race

As the trade deadline approaches, the anticipation builds for those last-minute deals that could significantly alter the landscape of the pennant race.

Teams on the cusp of contention may make bold moves to bolster their rosters, while others could opt for a more conservative approach, prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term gains.

Regardless of the strategies employed, the trade deadline promises to be a pivotal moment in the MLB season, with the potential to reshape the fortunes of franchises and ignite heated races for postseason berths.

The Pittsburgh Pirates, for instance, have made a four-year, $116 million offer to free agent designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, who hit .213 with 7 home runs and 14 RBIs in 80 at-bats this season, in a bid to bolster their lineup that has scored 113 runs and blasted 26 homers.