Who Are the Hottest MLB Trade Targets for the 2025 Deadline?

By Oliver Wiener June 17, 2025 09:34

As the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline approaches on July 31, the league is abuzz with speculation about which players could be on the move and which teams will be buyers or sellers. With just over six weeks remaining, front offices are assessing their needs and assets, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing deadline filled with strategic maneuvers. Here’s a breakdown of the hottest trade targets shaping up for the 2025 deadline and what teams are looking for.

Top Trade Targets: Pitching and Power Hitting Lead the Market

Shelby Miller (Diamondbacks) and Seth Halvorsen (Rockies) are among the most sought-after bullpen reinforcements. The New York Mets, for example, have a glaring need for bullpen depth and have identified Halvorsen as a prime candidate. The right-handed reliever boasts a 4.91 ERA over 26 games with a blazing average fastball velocity of 100.1 mph and impressive ground-ball rates. His recent 1.46 ERA last season makes him a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster late-inning pitching.

On the offensive side, Jarren Duran (Red Sox) is a favorite target for clubs like the San Diego Padres, who have struggled to find stability in left field since Jurickson Profar’s departure. Duran’s consistent performance and versatility make him a coveted bat, though the Red Sox may be reluctant to trade him given their own pitching needs.

Contending Teams’ Needs and Strategies

Several contending teams are actively preparing for the deadline with specific needs in mind. The Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and Texas Rangers, despite underwhelming starts, are expected to pursue upgrades rather than sell off assets. The Braves, for instance, are looking to enhance both their starting rotation and bullpen, while the Red Sox aim to trade outfielders like Jarren Duran or Wilyer Abreu for starting pitching and possibly upgrade first base.

The San Francisco Giants have already made a splash by acquiring star third baseman Rafael Devers from the Red Sox in mid-June, signaling their all-in approach for a playoff push. This move may trigger a domino effect, encouraging other National League teams to explore the trade market earlier than usual.

Potential Sellers and Available Talent

Teams like the Baltimore Orioles and Arizona Diamondbacks are poised to be major sellers if they decide to rebuild. Baltimore could offer pitchers such as Zach Eflin and Tomoyuki Sugano, along with position players like Cedric Mullins and Ryan O’Hearn. Arizona has several impending free agents, including starting pitchers Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, who could attract significant interest.

Meanwhile, the Miami Marlins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Colorado Rockies are also expected to be sellers, though their available talent may not be as impactful, limiting the pool of surefire stars on the market.

X-Factors and Opportunists

The 2025 deadline is unique due to the presence of “opportunist” teams hovering near playoff contention but lacking the depth to fully commit. The Milwaukee Brewers, for example, are around .500 in a stacked National League and could look to add pieces if the price is right. Their position makes them potential buyers but also cautious evaluators of the trade market.

What to Watch as July 31 Nears

As the deadline draws closer, expect a flurry of activity post-All-Star break. Teams will finalize their assessments based on their performance in the coming weeks. The market may remain quiet until then, but the Giants’ early blockbuster trade could accelerate negotiations across the league.

The 2025 MLB Trade Deadline is shaping up to be a dynamic period with pitching reinforcements like Shelby Miller and Seth Halvorsen, and versatile hitters like Jarren Duran at the forefront of trade talks. Contenders such as the Braves, Red Sox, and Giants are poised to make strategic moves to bolster their playoff chances, while sellers like the Orioles and Diamondbacks prepare to capitalize on their expiring assets. Fans and analysts alike should brace for a deadline that could significantly reshape the postseason landscape.