The 2025 MLB trade deadline is set to arrive at 6 p.m. ET on Thursday, July 31, creating a critical window for teams to finalize trades involving players on their 40-man rosters. After this deadline, only waiver claims will be available for teams seeking to make roster changes. As the cutoff date draws near, the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation about potential trades. In this article, we will explore the latest buzz surrounding key players and what it may mean for their respective teams.
One of the most talked-about players in the lead-up to the trade deadline is Shane Bieber, who is currently working his way back from Tommy John surgery he underwent in April 2024. Bieber is scheduled for a Double-A rehab start on Tuesday night, which will be closely monitored by scouts from around the league. With a player option worth $16 million for next season, Bieber might be seen as a rental player if he believes he can secure a better deal on the open market.
Meanwhile, teammate Stephen Kwan has two years of club control remaining, prompting the Guardians to set a high asking price for him. While there is a possibility that Cleveland could trade both players, Bieber appears to be the most likely candidate to move, primarily due to his more affordable trade cost. If he can demonstrate even a hint of the form that earned him the 2020 AL Cy Young Award and multiple All-Star selections, he could fetch a surprising return from teams in need of pitching.
The Detroit Tigers recently initiated a three-game home series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, and they are keen to leverage this proximity to bolster their chances of acquiring Arizona's star slugger Eugenio Suárez. Suárez, who will enter free agency after this season, stands out as the best power hitter available on the market. He currently leads the Majors with 87 RBIs and is tied for fourth with 36 home runs. His offensive prowess would significantly enhance any lineup, including that of the Tigers.
However, with the Tigers managing only two victories in their last 14 games, the motivation to pay the high price required to retain Suárez may be waning. The team's recent struggles could hinder their willingness to invest in a player who may not be a long-term solution.
Another player garnering attention is Josh Lowe, who is currently dealing with an injury to his foot. He is expected to return when first eligible on Wednesday, which could spark interest from multiple teams. Despite a slow start to the season, Lowe has rebounded impressively, accumulating 19 home runs and a combined total of 105 runs and RBIs through 86 games. His power bat is a valuable asset, making him a player the Tampa Bay Rays should consider retaining if they aim to stay competitive this season.
While there may be a price point that would prompt Tampa to trade Lowe, it seems unlikely that the New York Yankees will make a sufficiently aggressive offer given their own needs across the roster.
As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, teams are scrambling to evaluate their options and make strategic moves. With players like Shane Bieber, Eugenio Suárez, and Josh Lowe in the spotlight, the coming days will be critical for franchises looking to enhance their rosters for the final stretch of the season. Keep an eye on the latest updates as the deadline draws near, as the landscape of Major League Baseball could shift dramatically in the coming hours.