What Every Contender Needs Most at the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

By Oliver Wiener June 29, 2025 14:10

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches on July 31, contending teams are sharpening their focus on the precise pieces needed to make a deep postseason run. With only a handful of clubs more than ten games out of the wild-card race, the market is expected to be competitive but nuanced. Front offices are balancing roster construction, budget constraints, and player availability to address their most pressing needs. Here’s a look at what each contender is prioritizing as they prepare for the pivotal deadline.

Bullpen Reinforcements: A Universal Priority

One of the most common themes among contenders is the urgent need for bullpen depth. The New York Mets, in particular, have been vocal about shoring up their late-inning pitching. Right-handed reliever Seth Halvorsen of the Colorado Rockies stands out as a prime target. Halvorsen, who debuted in 2024, boasts a blazing fastball averaging 100.1 mph and a ground-ball rate that complements his strikeout ability. Although his 4.91 ERA over 26 games this season is higher than ideal, his underlying metrics and previous 1.46 ERA season suggest untapped potential. Mets general manager Billy Eppler remarked, “Adding a power arm like Halvorsen could be the difference-maker for us down the stretch.”

Other bullpen candidates gaining attention include Shelby Miller (Diamondbacks) and Dennis Santana (Pirates), both of whom could provide valuable innings for teams seeking to stabilize their relief corps.

Offensive Upgrades: Left Field and Infield Bats in Demand

Several contenders are targeting offensive reinforcements, especially on the left side of the field. The San Diego Padres, struggling to find consistency in left field since Jurickson Profar’s departure, have identified Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox as a top option. Duran, who ranked fourth in AL WAR last season and led the majors in doubles and triples, offers speed and on-base skills. However, the Red Sox remain hesitant to part with him given their own playoff aspirations.

Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers are focusing on bolstering their left side of the infield. With Willy Adames sidelined, they are eyeing Miguel Vargas from the Chicago White Sox. Vargas’s versatility and offensive promise make him an attractive target. Brewers GM Matt Arnold noted, “We need a bat that can provide both defensive stability and offensive production. Vargas fits that mold perfectly.”

Other infield options include Eugenio Suárez (Diamondbacks) and Ryan McMahon (Rockies), both of whom have demonstrated power and defensive acumen.

Starting Pitching: Premium Arms Still in Demand

While bullpen help is the most widespread need, starting pitching remains a coveted commodity. The Tampa Bay Rays, known for their savvy deadline maneuvers, may consider dealing controllable arms like Drew Rasmussen to acquire impact bats or bullpen pieces. Teams like the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees are actively scouting for premium starters to solidify their rotations.

The Brewers’ Freddy Peralta, with an $8 million salary and club option for 2026, is another intriguing piece who could draw interest from contenders looking for cost-controlled pitching.

Strategic Considerations and Market Dynamics

The trade market this year is shaped by a scarcity of clear sellers, with only a few clubs like the Athletics, Orioles, Rockies, White Sox, and Pirates firmly out of contention and positioned to move significant assets. This dynamic adds complexity for buyers, who must balance urgency with patience.

An NL executive summarized the landscape: “There’s a lot of jockeying going on behind the scenes. Teams are cautious but also eager to strike when the right opportunity arises. After the All-Star break, expect the market to heat up as the playoff picture clarifies.”

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline nears, contenders are laser-focused on addressing bullpen depth, adding offensive firepower especially on the left side of the field and acquiring starting pitching to round out their rotations. With a limited pool of sellers and high stakes, front offices are preparing for a strategic, fast-paced market that could reshape the postseason landscape.

Whether it’s the Mets targeting Seth Halvorsen to bolster their bullpen, the Padres pursuing Jarren Duran for left field stability, or the Brewers seeking Miguel Vargas to strengthen their infield, the trade deadline promises to be a defining moment for teams chasing October glory.