As the MLB All-Star break concludes, teams have under two weeks remaining before the trade deadline, fueling intense activity among front offices aiming to improve their rosters. This period is crucial for clubs pursuing playoff contention, as they seek to strengthen their lineups, while out-of-contention teams look to trade players with expiring contracts to build for the future.
Among the players attracting significant trade speculation are five stars, including Eugenio Suárez, whose trade deadline prospects are particularly noteworthy.
Eugenio Suárez a Likely Candidate for Arizona Diamondbacks’ Roster Changes
The Arizona Diamondbacks, with a 47-50 record and trailing the final National League Wild Card spot, are expected to exit the race and move on from some high-value contracts. Eugenio Suárez fits this profile, carrying an expiring seven-year, $66 million deal. Despite the team’s struggles, Suárez has delivered solid production, recording a .889 OPS accompanied by 31 home runs and 78 RBIs this season. His dependable defense at third base adds to his appeal for potential suitors.
Teams such as the New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, and Chicago Cubs are among the likely candidates interested in acquiring Suarez to bolster their postseason chances.
Baltimore Orioles’ Matt O’Hearn Draws Attention from Contenders
In the highly competitive American League East, the Baltimore Orioles hold a 43-52 record, signaling a probable selling phase at the deadline. Matt O’Hearn, on a one-year contract set to expire after this season, stands out due to his All-Star level performance. With a batting average of .286, 11 home runs, and three stolen bases, O’Hearn’s left-handed power bat could be highly sought after by playoff contenders.
Teams like Houston, Milwaukee, San Diego, and Boston are expected to show interest in strengthening their lineups with O’Hearn’s talents as the trade window narrows.
Sandy Alcántara Faces Uncertainty Amid Struggles and Trade Talks
The Miami Marlins remain out of the playoff picture, and once again, pitcher Sandy Alcántara is linked to trade rumors. The former Cy Young Award winner is coming off Tommy John surgery and has been struggling this season, posting a 7.22 ERA over 91 innings. Despite the disappointing numbers, Alcántara’s potential to serve as a frontline starter keeps him on the radar for teams needing top-tier pitching staff additions.
Given his current form, acquiring Alcántara might come at a reduced cost, potentially creating a value opportunity for contenders willing to take a chance on his rebound.
Zac Gallen and Joe Ryan Among Other Key Pitching Names in Play
The Diamondbacks face difficult decisions as pitching ace Zac Gallen enters the final year of his contract before free agency. Although fans may be reluctant, Gallen’s name is emerging in trade discussions as the team tries to maximize value from his elite pitching ahead of free agency.
Meanwhile, Joe Ryan delivered two scoreless innings for the American League during the MLB All-Star Game, complementing an impressive season with a 2.72 ERA and a 9-4 win-loss record. Ryan’s consistent performance makes him an attractive and reliable rotation option, though acquiring him will likely require a significant return from interested teams.
Trade Deadline Moves Could Shift Team Fortunes
The upcoming trade deadline presents an opportunity for teams on the verge of contention to make impactful roster improvements through players like Eugenio Suárez, Matt O’Hearn, Sandy Alcántara, Zac Gallen, and Joe Ryan. Each player carries unique value, either for their current contributions or future potential, creating a dynamic market for franchises looking to adjust their postseason trajectories.
As negotiations unfold, fan bases and organizations alike await decisions that could reshape lineups and influence the final stages of the MLB season.