The (numerically inaccurate) latter portion is commencing, and the exchange period concludes in merely 10 days. Official submissions are due by 6 p.m. ET on the upcoming Thursday, July 31. Speculation and movement regarding potential acquisitions will escalate now that the selection process for young players is complete and management personnel can direct their focus to the deadline. The following constitutes Monday’s collection of swap-related conjectures.
Mets open to offers for youthful infielders
Reports from The Athletic suggest that the Mets are prepared to entertain offers for their promising infield prospects, including Luisangel Acuña, Brett Baty, Ronny Mauricio, and Mark Vientos. Given Francisco Lindor’s established role at shortstop, Pete Alonso’s presence at first base, and Jeff McNeil’s frequent appearances at second base, the available playing time for these developing infielders is somewhat limited.
The Mets’ priority at the deadline is to reinforce their bullpen. They are also likely to seek an upgrade in center field over Tyrone Taylor, although this may prove challenging. Realistically, the Mets are likely to only consider trading one of their young infielders in exchange for player(s) with extended contractual control, rather than simply acquiring a temporary relief pitcher for the remainder of the season and postseason.
Cardinals considering offers for Fedde
Following a series of losses to the Diamondbacks, the Cardinals’ position is shifting towards that of a seller. However, it remains uncertain whether they will ultimately adopt this role. Irrespective of their perceived competitiveness leading up to July 31, they are reportedly open to offers for veteran right-handed starter Erick Fedde, as indicated by The Athletic on Monday. Fedde is slated to pitch on Tuesday against the Rockies. The Cardinals undoubtedly hope that he can reverse his recent trend of conceding runs. In his previous four starts, he has surrendered 20 runs across 14 ⅔ innings.
Under typical conditions, Fedde would likely have been replaced in the rotation by Michael McGreevy. However, the Cardinals appear to be persisting with Fedde to potentially improve his trade value over his next two appearances. Fedde is owed the remaining portion of his $7.5 million salary for 2025 and is eligible for unrestricted free agency this coming offseason.
Cubs considering Suárez for the hot corner
According to The Athletic, the Cubs are among the teams evaluating Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez as a potential acquisition before the deadline. While rookie Matt Shaw has showcased his defensive skills at third base, his offensive performance has been underwhelming. Chicago is expected to be aggressive in pursuing upgrades at the deadline, recognizing that this season represents their best chance with Kyle Tucker, who is set to become a free agent this winter.
In addition to third base, the Cubs are also in need of a starting pitcher following Justin Steele’s season-ending elbow surgery, as well as bullpen reinforcements. All contending teams are seeking bullpen improvements. Chicago possesses a robust farm system, with power-hitting outfielder Owen Caissie potentially being a valuable trade chip. If trading Caissie can bring in a significant contributor, he will likely be made available.
Oakland showing willingness to part with starting pitchers
The Athletics are entertaining trade proposals for right-handed pitcher Luis Severino and left-handers JP Sears and Jeffrey Springs, as reported by The Athletic. Given the limited availability of high-quality pitching, and the fact that all three pitchers are under contractual control for at least another season, there has been increasing interest in their availability.
Springs, who will turn 33 in September, has emerged as the A’s most consistent starting pitcher this season. He is guaranteed $10.5 million in 2026 and has a $15 million club option for 2027, a reasonable price for a dependable mid-rotation pitcher. Sears is under team control at a low cost and offers durability, though he has struggled with allowing home runs. Severino, who has openly criticized the conditions in Sacramento, has posted a 3.10 ERA on the road compared to a 6.68 ERA at Sutter Health Park. The A’s possess a strong offensive core and should now focus on improving their pitching depth.
Orioles prioritizing trades involving players on expiring contracts
Given the Orioles’ 44-54 record, it comes as no surprise that General Manager Mike Elias stated during an MLB Network Radio interview that the team will primarily focus on trading players whose contracts are expiring. “We have to be realistic about where we are… If other clubs are interested in players who are nearing the end of their contracts with us, we have to consider those possibilities,” Elias commented.
Baltimore has several players who will soon become free agents. Starting pitchers Zach Eflin and the recently improved Charlie Morton are expected to draw interest, as are relief pitchers Seranthony Domínguez and Gregory Soto. Center fielder Cedric Mullins, first baseman Ryan O’Hearn, and platoon outfielder Ramón Laureano are also approaching free agency. While all these players will be in demand, none is expected to command a significant return in a trade.
Los Angeles looking to bolster bullpen for the final innings
Despite investing over $100 million in re-signing Blake Treinen and acquiring Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates during the offseason, the Dodgers are still actively pursuing bullpen reinforcements ahead of the trade deadline, according to USA Today. They have reportedly inquired with the Twins regarding Jhoan Duran, the Pirates about David Bednar, the Cardinals concerning Ryan Helsley, and the Guardians regarding Emmanuel Clase, among others.
Both Scott and Yates have performed below expectations and have been susceptible to home runs. Treinen has also been sidelined for a significant portion of the season due to a forearm injury, although he is expected to return shortly. Alex Vesia typically handles the most critical outs for manager Dave Roberts on a nightly basis. The Dodgers need to acquire at least one more reliable reliever to reduce Vesia’s workload and provide Roberts with another dependable option in high-pressure situations.
