Early MLB 2026 trade deadline preview: Player most likely to be traded for all 30 teams

Early MLB 2026 Trade Deadline Preview: Potential Trade Candidates for All 30 Teams

As Major League Baseball (MLB) teams begin to assess their standings and strategies for the 2026 season, the trade deadline looms on the horizon. With a mix of established stars, promising prospects, and players who may no longer fit their teams’ plans, the upcoming trade window presents a pivotal opportunity for franchises to reshape their rosters. Below is a look at potential trade candidates from each of the 30 MLB teams.

American League East

• Baltimore Orioles: John Means - The veteran pitcher, returning from injury, could be attractive to teams looking for a reliable arm.
• Boston Red Sox: Kutter Crawford - The young right-hander has shown flashes of brilliance and could be a valuable asset for a contender.
• New York Yankees: Gleyber Torres - With the Yankees in a rebuilding phase, Torres may be moved to acquire younger talent.
• Tampa Bay Rays: Shane McClanahan - A top-tier starter, McClanahan could fetch a significant return if the Rays decide to pivot.
• Toronto Blue Jays: Alejandro Kirk - The catcher has been a consistent performer and could be a key piece for teams needing depth behind the plate.

American League Central

• Chicago White Sox: Tim Anderson - The shortstop’s experience and leadership could be appealing to teams in playoff contention.
• Cleveland Guardians: Shane Bieber - The ace pitcher may be on the move if the Guardians look to rebuild.
• Detroit Tigers: Spencer Torkelson - The young slugger could attract interest from teams looking for offensive firepower.
• Kansas City Royals: Bobby Witt Jr. - As a rising star, Witt could be a centerpiece in a blockbuster trade.
• Minnesota Twins: Carlos Correa - The veteran shortstop may be moved if the Twins fall out of contention.

American League West

• Houston Astros: Kyle Tucker - The outfielder’s combination of power and speed makes him a valuable trade target.
• Los Angeles Angels: Shohei Ohtani - If the Angels do not contend, the two-way superstar could be the most sought-after player on the market.
• Oakland Athletics: A.J. Puk - The left-handed reliever may be dealt to a team looking for bullpen help.
• Seattle Mariners: Luis Castillo - The ace pitcher could be a game-changer for teams in need of starting pitching.
• Texas Rangers: Adolis García - The outfielder’s power could be enticing for teams looking to bolster their lineup.

National League East

• Atlanta Braves: Max Fried - The left-handed starter could be a key addition for a contender.
• Miami Marlins: Jazz Chisholm Jr. - The dynamic infielder may attract interest from teams looking for offensive upgrades.
• New York Mets: Francisco Lindor - The star shortstop could be available if the Mets decide to retool.
• Philadelphia Phillies: Zach Eflin - The right-hander could provide depth for teams looking for pitching.
• Washington Nationals: Carter Kieboom - The young infielder may be a target for teams looking to invest in future talent.

National League Central

• Chicago Cubs: Marcus Stroman - The veteran pitcher could be a valuable asset for teams in need of starting depth.
• Cincinnati Reds: Jonathan India - The second baseman’s versatility and skill could make him a target for contenders.
• Milwaukee Brewers: Corbin Burnes - The ace pitcher would command a significant return if the Brewers decide to trade him.
• Pittsburgh Pirates: Ke’Bryan Hayes - The talented third baseman could be a centerpiece in a trade for a team looking to bolster its lineup.
• St. Louis Cardinals: Paul Goldschmidt - The veteran first baseman could be moved if the Cardinals enter a rebuilding phase.

National League West

• Arizona Diamondbacks: