With the MLB trade deadline rapidly approaching, several teams are jostling for playoff position while others eye potential trade chips. Here are 40 difference-makers who could impact the playoff race should they be dealt.
As the MLB trade deadline of July 30 approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Teams are jockeying for playoff positions, while others are considering selling off their assets for a brighter future. Here's a list of 40 players who could potentially be on the move and impact the playoff hunt:
1. **Tarik Skubal, LHP, Detroit Tigers:** A highly coveted Cy Young contender, Skubal's availability depends on the Tigers securing a blockbuster deal.
2. **Garrett Crochet, LHP, Chicago White Sox:** The former reliever has impressed as a starter, making him an intriguing target for teams seeking pitching depth.
3. **Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 1B, Toronto Blue Jays:** The 2021 All-Star's inconsistent performance this year may prompt the Blue Jays to explore trade options.
4. **Luis Robert Jr., OF, Chicago White Sox:** Despite his injury concerns, Robert's exceptional abilities could entice teams willing to risk his health.
5. **Mason Miller, RHP, Oakland Athletics:** The dominant closer with an overpowering fastball could fetch a significant haul for the rebuilding A's.
6. **Isaac Paredes, 3B, Tampa Bay Rays:** The young All-Star's solid plate discipline and power make him a desirable infielder.
7. **Randy Arozarena, OF, Tampa Bay Rays:** Although the 2021 Rookie of the Year has struggled this season, his postseason prowess could generate interest.
8. **Nathan Eovaldi, RHP, Texas Rangers:** The veteran right-hander's postseason experience and affordable contract make him a potential trade target.
9. **Jack Flaherty, RHP, Detroit Tigers:** A potential rental option for teams in need of strikeout potential.
10. **Zach Eflin, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays:** The Rays may consider moving Eflin's contract before its value diminishes.
11. **Erick Fedde, RHP, Chicago White Sox:** Fedde's team-friendly deal makes him an attractive asset for pitching-starved teams.
12. **Yandy Díaz, 1B, Tampa Bay Rays:** Díaz's underlying metrics remain strong, but the Rays could hold onto him due to his recent struggles.
13. **Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays:** The injured shortstop's low OPS and contract status may make him a bargain for a rebuilding team.
14. **Jazz Chisholm Jr., OF, Miami Marlins:** The versatile power-speed threat could attract interest despite his inconsistent performance this year.
15. **Luis Rengifo, UTIL, Los Angeles Angels:** An affordable and versatile infielder hitting over .300 on a subpar team.
16. **Brent Rooker, DH/OF, Oakland Athletics:** Rooker's power and high strikeout rate could be balanced by his impressive offensive numbers.
17. **Cody Bellinger, 1B/OF, Chicago Cubs:** The struggling former MVP's uncertain contract status could hinder his trade value.
18. **Matt Chapman, 3B, San Francisco Giants:** Chapman's defensive prowess and power could be attractive to contenders seeking a third baseman.
19. **Blake Snell, LHP, San Francisco Giants:** Snell's inconsistent performance could make him a risky acquisition despite his talent.
20. **Carlos Estévez, RHP, Los Angeles Angels:** The reliable reliever has a 1.21 ERA and rarely allows hard contact.
21. **Tanner Scott, LHP, Miami Marlins:** Scott's increased walk rate could temper his value, but he has a strong ERA and rarely allows hard contact.
22. **Chris Bassitt, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays:** Bassitt's declining strikeout and walk rates may deter some teams, but he remains a solid mid-rotation option.
23. **Jesse Winker, OF, Washington Nationals:** A rental option for teams seeking a right-handed power hitter.
24. **Lane Thomas, OF, Washington Nationals:** Thomas's ability to hit left-handed pitching makes him a potential trade target for teams seeking an outfield platoon.
25. **Jonathan India, 2B, Cincinnati Reds:** The Reds could consider moving India, whose OPS is hovering close to .800.
26. **Jameson Taillon, RHP, Chicago Cubs:** The Cubs' recent struggles could make Taillon available despite his affordable contract.
27. **LaMonte Wade Jr., 1B, San Francisco Giants:** A potential first baseman option for teams seeking a right-handed hitter.
28. **Tommy Pham, OF, Chicago White Sox:** Pham's journeyman status could appeal to a contender seeking a veteran presence.
29. **Nico Hoerner, 2B, Chicago Cubs:** Hoerner's defensive prowess, speed, and affordable contract could attract interest as a middle infielder.
30. **Camilo Doval, RHP, San Francisco Giants:** Doval's All-Star caliber pitching this year could entice contenders despite his recent struggles.
The remaining 10 players on the list include Taylor Ward (OF, Los Angeles Angels), Brandon Lowe (2B, Tampa Bay Rays), Danny Jansen (C, Toronto Blue Jays), Elias Diaz (C, Colorado Rockies), Yimi Garcia (RHP, Toronto Blue Jays), Lucas Erceg (RHP, Oakland Athletics), Pete Fairbanks (RHP, Tampa Bay Rays), Andrew Chafin (LHP, Detroit Tigers), Cal Quantrill (RHP, Colorado Rockies), and Yusei Kikuchi (LHP, Toronto Blue Jays).
