The MLB trade deadline season has kicked off with unexpected intensity, and Sunday’s significant trade that sent Rafael Devers from the Boston Red Sox to the San Francisco Giants is poised to be the most impactful deal leading up to the July 31 deadline. However, Devers is not the only key player whose future is uncertain. As we delve deeper into the trade landscape, here’s our comprehensive MLB trade deadline Big Board, featuring 30 players who could be on the move in the coming weeks, potentially influencing the outcomes of the pennant races.
This is the first installment of three Big Boards we will publish as the trade deadline approaches. Our focus is primarily on players from teams that currently have less than a 30 percent chance of making the postseason, according to insights from FanGraphs. While this guideline helps us narrow down potential trades, it's important to note that team standings can fluctuate rapidly during this time of year, making it a fluid situation.
Moreover, we have considered each team’s history regarding deadline trades. For instance, the Milwaukee Brewers made headlines by trading Josh Hader while they were leading their division, demonstrating their willingness to make bold moves. On the other hand, the Atlanta Braves have historically sought to enhance their roster even when underperforming. While our current list contains Brewers players, there are no Braves featured—this could very well change in our subsequent updates.
For clarity, here are some key details we’ll be considering for each player on our list: the player’s age as of June 30, their batting and throwing style (B/T), and the financial obligations associated with them, as reported by Baseball Prospectus. The monetary figures only account for the period following July 31. Additionally, the Wins Above Replacement (WAR) statistics from 2023 are updated through Sunday, while projections for 2025 will cover performance until the season concludes, all sourced from FanGraphs.
When assessing the likelihood of each player being traded, we utilize a color-coded system: red indicates an unlikely trade, yellow suggests a moderate chance, and green signals a strong likelihood of being dealt. Our rankings are meticulously crafted to provide a reliable overview of the trade market as we approach the deadline.
As we enter this exciting period of potential trades and roster changes, keep an eye on our future updates. The MLB trade deadline is not just about the big names; it's also an opportunity for teams to reshape their futures and make strategic moves that could alter the course of the season. Make sure to follow our coverage for in-depth analysis and the latest news on player movements leading up to July 31.
