MLB Trade Rumors: Who’s on the Block as Deadline Approaches?

By Oliver Wiener June 29, 2025 14:17

As the July 31 MLB trade deadline looms, the league’s landscape is buzzing with speculation about which stars and key contributors could be on the move. With only six teams more than seven games outside of a wild-card spot, the market is unusually tight, creating a high-stakes environment where even subtle shifts could have major playoff implications. Here’s a look at some of the most intriguing trade candidates and the teams likely to be involved as the deadline approaches.

Jarren Duran: A Surprising Name in Boston’s Outfield Shuffle

Jarren Duran stands out as one of the most talked-about players potentially on the block. Despite a down year compared to his 2024 breakout, Duran remains under team control through 2028 and still profiles as an above-average leadoff hitter. Last season, he ranked fourth in the AL in WAR, ahead of stars like Juan Soto and José Ramirez, and led the majors in doubles and triples. In 2025, his slash line sits at .254/.307/.404 with 5 home runs and 38 RBIs across 81 games. The Red Sox, currently hovering near the playoff bubble, have a surplus of outfielders, making Duran the most frequent name emerging in trade rumors. Potential suitors include the Padres, Braves, Dodgers, Phillies, and Guardians.

Marcell Ozuna: Atlanta’s Potential Rental Asset

The Atlanta Braves, currently 12 games back in the NL East and seven games out of a wild-card spot, could pivot toward selling veteran pieces. Marcell Ozuna, their designated hitter, is among the most valuable expiring contracts available. Known for his power and run production, Ozuna could fetch a strong return as a rental bat. While the Braves have expressed reluctance to move cornerstone players like Chris Sale, the possibility of dealing expiring contracts like Ozuna remains open if the season continues to slip away. Teams like the Guardians, Rangers, and Tigers are potential fits for Ozuna’s power bat.

Ryan McMahon: Rockies’ Third Base Trade Chip

Colorado’s Ryan McMahon has turned his season around after a sluggish start, hitting seven home runs with 16 RBIs and an .855 OPS since early May. A stellar defender at third base, McMahon is signed through 2027 with a reasonable salary, making him an attractive target for teams needing a reliable infielder. Potential landing spots include the Brewers, Tigers, Twins, and Yankees.

Freddy Peralta: Brewers’ Pitching Asset on the Block?

The Milwaukee Brewers sit just 1.5 games out of a wild-card spot, but their history of dealing pitchers approaching free agency suggests Freddy Peralta could be moved. With a salary of $8 million in 2025 and a club option for 2026, Peralta offers controllable pitching that many contenders covet. Potential destinations include the Blue Jays, Braves, Orioles, and Yankees.

Baltimore Orioles: A Surprise Seller

The Orioles, despite a poor start, could become the deadline’s most active sellers. First baseman Ryan O’Hearn, who ranks fifth in MLB in weighted runs created plus (wRC+), is a prime candidate to be moved. Baltimore also has several relievers with expiring contracts, including Seranthony Dominguez and Andrew Kittredge, who could attract interest. Cedric Mullins, a dynamic outfielder, is another name that could be shopped as the Orioles focus on 2026.

Market Dynamics and Outlook

With 24 of MLB’s 30 teams within six games of a playoff spot, the line between buyers and sellers is razor-thin. This scarcity of clear sellers adds intrigue and volatility to the trade market. Teams on the playoff bubble are weighing their options, and some may pivot toward selling if their playoff hopes dim, while others will double down on acquisitions to push for October.

The July 31 deadline at 6 p.m. ET marks the final opportunity for teams to make trades involving players on 40-man rosters, heightening the urgency. As the deadline approaches, expect a flurry of activity involving both established stars and controllable young players, with front offices balancing short-term gains against long-term strategy.

The 2025 MLB trade deadline promises to be a fascinating chess match, with a handful of high-profile players like Jarren Duran, Marcell Ozuna, Ryan McMahon, and Freddy Peralta potentially changing uniforms. Teams like the Red Sox, Braves, Rockies, Brewers, and Orioles could be pivotal in shaping the market. With playoff races tight and rosters fluid, the coming weeks will be critical for contenders and rebuilders alike as they position themselves for the stretch run and beyond.