Baseball's big names headed for deadline deals? MLB insiders point to four major likely trades in the trade market

The trade market is heating up with speculation surrounding several high-profile players, as the 2025 Major League Baseball season approaches its midpoint. Teams are assessing their positions, whether to bolster their rosters for a playoff push or to rebuild for the future.

Top trade candidates identified by MLB executives

A recent survey of MLB executives highlighted four players as the most likely to be traded before the July 31 deadline:


Sandy Alcantara, Miami Marlins (12 votes)

Luis Robert Jr., Chicago White Sox (5 votes)

Nolan Arenado, St. Louis Cardinals (1 vote)

Framber Valdez, Houston Astros (1 vote)

Sandy Alcantara

Alcantara, the 2022 National League Cy Young Award winner, has struggled this season with an ERA over 8. Despite this, his track record and potential make him an attractive target for teams seeking to strengthen their pitching rotation. The Marlins, currently out of playoff contention, may look to trade Alcantara, who is under team control through 2026 with a 2027 team option.

Luis Robert Jr.

Robert Jr., a dynamic outfielder for the White Sox, has been the subject of trade rumors as Chicago considers a roster overhaul. With five executives identifying him as a likely trade candidate, Robert Jr.'s combination of power and speed could provide a significant boost to teams in need of outfield talent.

Nolan Arenado

Arenado, a ten-time Gold Glove third baseman, has seen a decline in offensive production over recent seasons. With a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) dropping from 149 in 2022 to 95 this season, and a substantial salary commitment, the Cardinals may consider trading him to reallocate resources and infuse young talent into their system.

Framber Valdez

Valdez, a consistent performer for the Astros, is in the final year of his contract, earning $18 million. Houston, known for its fiscal prudence, might trade Valdez to avoid losing him in free agency without compensation. Despite being a rental, his reliability makes him a valuable asset for teams seeking to solidify their starting rotation.

Other notable trade possibilities

The Baltimore Orioles, amid a disappointing season, are reportedly considering trading key players such as Cedric Mullins and Ryan Mountcastle. Additionally, pitcher Félix Bautista, despite recent struggles, retains trade value and could be moved as the Orioles reassess their roster strategy.

The availability of high-profile players like Alcantara, Robert Jr., Arenado, and Valdez adds intrigue to the midseason landscape, promising a dynamic and potentially transformative period for Major League Baseball.