As the 2024 MLB trade deadline approaches, teams are strategically maneuvering to optimize their rosters for the stretch run. The excitement surrounding the Jarren Duran MLB trade deadline reflects broader league dynamics, where teams either reinforce for playoff contention or rebuild with future talent. Several notable players, including Duran himself, are positioned as prime trade candidates in this pivotal period.
Top MLB Players Who Could Change Teams Soon
Among the standout players likely to be traded before the deadline is Alex Bregman, the Boston Red Sox’s award-winning third baseman. Despite recently signing with Boston for the upcoming seasons, Bregman, a recipient of both Gold Glove and Silver Slugger honors, could be moved to support the organization’s other ventures. The Red Sox recently stunned fans by trading long-time star Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants, signaling a shift in team strategy.
Speculation surrounds the connection between Devers’ move and Fenway Sports Group’s ownership of Liverpool Football Club, especially following the club’s recent acquisition of German midfielder Florian Wirtz for a reported $145 million. This has fueled assumptions that Devers’ contract was offloaded in part to help finance the transfer. Given this, Bregman’s future in Boston appears uncertain, with teams like the Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers, and New York Yankees emerging as potential destinations for the All-Star third baseman.
Jarren Duran Poised for a Potential Move
Jarren Duran, an outfielder and the 2024 All-Star Game MVP, is also among those who could be traded. Duran has delivered an impressive breakout season, leading the league in triples and earning a spot on the All-MLB second team. However, Boston’s crowded outfield and a faltering season may prompt management to trade Duran for younger prospects to build for the future.
Teams needing outfield reinforcement, such as the San Diego Padres and Cleveland Guardians, have been mentioned as likely suitors for Duran’s fiery talents, particularly as the Red Sox appear ready to pivot away from immediate contention.
Sandy Alcantara’s Declining Fortunes and Trade Prospects
Marlins’ starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara, once a Cy Young Award winner, has struggled to regain form after undergoing Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him for the entire 2024 season. With a 4-8 record and a 6.69 ERA overall this year, Alcantara’s performance has been uneven, though recent outings show signs of improvement with a 2-1 record and a 2.74 ERA in the current month.
While he may no longer be reliable as an ace, Alcantara could still fill important rotation needs for teams with injured or depleted pitching staffs. The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off a World Series title, and the American League contender Houston Astros are considered potential destinations for the veteran right-hander.
Luis Robert Jr. as a Valuable Trade Asset
Luis Robert Jr., a talented outfielder for the Chicago White Sox, represents one of the most promising players available in this trade window. At just 27 years old, Robert has accumulated a 14.4 fWAR over five seasons (excluding the 2025 season), demonstrating his considerable upside.
Given the White Sox’s current struggles, many believe Robert’s prime years would be better utilized elsewhere. Relocation to teams like the Philadelphia Phillies or New York Mets (often referred to as Queens) could reignite Robert’s career and offer fresh opportunities both for him and his new team.
Pete Fairbanks and the Bullpen Market
The Tampa Bay Rays find themselves battling for playoff positioning, currently holding a slim lead in the wild card race and chasing the Yankees in the AL East. Although trading a key reliever like Pete Fairbanks now might seem counterintuitive, the Rays’ reputation as a creator of pitching talent has teams watching closely.
Fairbanks, with a 3-1 record and a strong 2.15 ERA over 30 appearances this year, is a valuable bullpen asset. Contenders like the Dodgers and Phillies, which are in need of reliable relief pitchers, might offer substantial return value for Fairbanks ahead of the trade deadline.
What These Trades Could Mean for the MLB Landscape
The potential movement of players such as Jarren Duran and Alex Bregman underscores the volatile nature of the MLB trade market, where teams’ priorities are constantly evolving. For the Red Sox and other organizations, trading marquee players may provide opportunities to rebuild or invest in long-term success. Meanwhile, contenders in need of depth are actively seeking to capitalize on these opportunities to strengthen their postseason prospects.
How these deals ultimately impact team dynamics and individual performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as the 2024 MLB trade deadline promises to reshape the league’s competitive balance in significant ways.
“If the Red Sox management can do this to Devers who has been with the club for nine years, a big-contract player like Bregman is certainly not safe from being dealt elsewhere.” —Kendall Baker, Journalist
“Fairbanks currently holds a 3-1 record with a 2.15 ERA across 30 games this year. With the necessity of bullpen arms in the Dodgers and Phillies’ pens, the Rays reliever can certainly be traded for above-market value players at the deadline.” —Unattributed