An Early Look at the Top 5 Trade Targets Teams Could Target at the Trade Deadline
With the MLB 2026 trade deadline coming up fast, I thought it would be the perfect time to check out some of the top players teams could target. Here’s my rundown of the five best trade targets, along with three possible suitors for each team.
5) Luis Arraez
The Giants are hanging near the bottom of the NL West, so a few key guys could be on the move. I doubt they’ll deal Chapman or Adames, but Arraez looks like a real possibility. The Dodgers or Athletics, who don’t have great options at 1B or 2B, could use his consistent bat and all-around versatility, especially as October looms.
Potential suitors: Dodgers, Athletics, Mariners
Position: 1B/2B
4) Jarren Duran
Right now, Boston’s sitting at 26-35, dead last in the AL East. If they start unloading, Duran might be one of the hottest outfielders out there. His speed, solid defense, and knack for extra-base hits make him a game-changer for contenders. Plus, Boston’s got some outfield depth, so people have been talking about him as a trade candidate for a while.
Potential suitors: Padres, Phillies, Cardinals
Position: OF
3) Freddy Peralta
If a team needs to beef up its starting rotation for a cheaper cost than other top pitchers on the market, Peralta is a great option. However, there is a very real chance the Brewers are actually contending and are looking to buy at the deadline rather than sell.
Potential suitors: Blue Jays, Orioles, Padres
Position: SP
2) Vinnie Pasquantino
Finding a power-hitting first baseman isn’t easy. If Kansas City drops out of the race, Pasquantino could be one of the most coveted bats around. He’s got power and gets on base, which is exactly what teams want in the middle of their lineup come playoff time. However, I could see the Royals being wary of dealing Pasquantino as they still have 3 more years of club control on him.
Potential suitors: Mariners, Giants, Red Sox
Position: 1B
1) Tarik Skubal
This guy’s the ace everyone’s talking about. Skubal tops nearly every trade list, and grabbing him instantly upgrades any team’s championship hopes. He’s the biggest name (not just starting pitcher) on the market as the deadline approaches, and there’s no shortage of rumors circling him right now. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Tigers seriously considered offers on this guy.
Potential suitors: Dodgers, Cubs, Padres
Position: SP
Thanks for reading!
