As Major League Baseball’s trade deadline approaches on July 31, teams are actively seeking to strengthen their rosters, with the Eugenio Suárez trade outlook adjusting amid shifting team interests. Notably, the New York Mets have decided not to pursue the Diamondbacks’ third baseman, despite his strong performance, focusing instead on acquiring a starting pitcher or a center fielder, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
Suárez, 34, currently stands out as one of the best available bats, boasting a .252 batting average with a .325 on-base percentage and a .593 slugging percentage, alongside 36 home runs during his first 101 games this season. Baseball Reference estimates his contribution at 3.5 Wins Above Replacement. The Mets have been experimenting with several young players, such as Mark Vientos, Brett Baty, and Ronny Mauricio, to fill infield roles at second and third base instead.
Cardinals’ Closer Ryan Helsley Anticipates Being Traded Soon
The St. Louis Cardinals are also expected to be active in the trade market, particularly with closer Ryan Helsley signaling a likely move. Speaking to The Athletic on Thursday, Helsley described the situation as different from previous years, stating his chance of being traded is higher than ever.
It’s a little bit different this time,
Helsley said.
The likelihood is probably as great as it’s ever been for me to get traded.
He added:
I would say it’s 90% I go, 10% I stay.
—Ryan Helsley, Cardinals closer
The 31-year-old Helsley has recorded a 3.09 ERA with a 136 ERA+ mark and a 2.79 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 35 appearances this season. As a two-time All-Star, he ranks among several Cardinals who could be dealt, including left-hander Steven Matz and right-hander Phil Maton, as the team reshapes its bullpen and roster ahead of the postseason push.
Trade Deadline Activity Gaining Momentum Around the League
The Mariners initiated the busiest part of the midsummer trading period by acquiring first baseman Josh Naylor from the Diamondbacks in exchange for two pitchers. This move highlights how teams are strategically targeting key positions to bolster their chances before the deadline. With less than a week remaining, fans and analysts remain eager to see which other players, like Suárez and Helsley, will change teams as contenders sharpen their lineups.
Given Suárez’s solid offensive numbers and impending free agency, his trade value remains significant even if the Mets pass on him, likely drawing attention from other playoff hopefuls. Meanwhile, Helsley’s openness to a trade underscores how the Cardinals may look to retool their bullpen while capitalizing on his proven performance.