MLB · 1 year ago

Top 20 MLB Stars with the Best Trade Value at the Deadline

Sportsgrid Staff

Host · Writer

20. LHP Tanner Scott, MIA
Control: FA after 2024

Tanner Scott has transitioned from a frequently used middle reliever with the Orioles to a top-tier closer for the Marlins in just a few seasons. With an expiring contract, the left-hander boasts a 1.93 ERA over his first 27 outings this year. While save opportunities are limited in Miami, his high strikeout rate makes him an attractive option for any team in need of a lefty reliever.

Potential fits: Orioles, Royals, Rangers

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1. 3B Isaac Paredes, TBR
Control: FA after 2027

Isaac Paredes, 25, has built on his strong 2023 performance with an even more impressive 2024 season.

In 67 games, he boasts a .281 average, .822 OPS, and a 137 OPS+ with 10 home runs and 38 RBI. Most of his key statistics are already surpassing last year's strong numbers. If the Rays decide to trade him at the deadline, his value in discussions will be substantial. With his control, raw power, and the Rays' track record of rarely losing trades, they could achieve a significant return if they choose to move him.

Potential fits: Cubs, Astros, Mariners

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2. RHP Mason Miller, OAK
Control: FA after 2029

Mason Miller has been the most pleasant surprise in baseball this year, showcasing an ascent to dominance that can only be described as awesome. The right-hander has made 25 appearances, securing 12 saves. He's striking out nearly 16 batters per nine innings while lowering his walk rate from last year’s 33-inning stint. Miller's fastball-slider combo has been unmatched, with neither pitch allowing a batting average higher than .151. His fastball, averaging 100.9 mph, is especially impressive due to his remarkable control.

Potential fits: Orioles, Phillies, Yankees

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4. OF Luis Robert Jr., CWS
Control: FA after 2025 (2026 & 2027 team option)

Currently playing on a team-friendly contract, Luis Robert Jr. could remain under control for up to three and a half more years and is a formidable player when healthy. The issue is that despite being 26 years old with five years of experience, he has only played more than 100 games once.

Jeff Passan and Bob Nightengale have both reported that the White Sox are open to trading Robert. However, Nightengale notes that it would require a "Juan Soto-type package," which many teams might be reluctant to offer, despite Robert's top-tier talent.

This year, Robert has again shown durability concerns, but he boasts a 113 OPS+ through 19 games and continues to excel defensively, providing strong performances in center field.

Potential fits: Blue Jays, Dodgers, Phillies
5. OF Brent Rooker, OAK
Control: FA after 2027

Brent Rooker is on track for his second consecutive All-Star Game selection and remains one of the team's top hitters. In 59 games, he has hit 13 home runs and driven in 41 runs, posting a career-high .843 OPS and a 145 OPS+. While he looked great last year, he has been excellent this season.

In the midst of a significant rebuild, the A's need to trade Rooker while his value is high. He is under control for several more years and is currently at the peak of his batting performance. Similar to the demand for relief pitching, many teams are in need of a power-hitting corner outfielder as the trade deadline approaches.

Potential fits: Twins, Guardians, Dodgers

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6. LHP Jesus Luzardo, MIA
Control: FA after 2026

Another pitcher with significant control, Jesus Luzardo is experiencing a down year with a 5.00 ERA and 86 ERA+ over 12 starts. However, his slightly better 4.25 FIP and his extensive track record offer some optimism. Luzardo has the potential for 200 strikeouts and can be a legitimate top-of-the-rotation arm when he's at his best, as demonstrated as recently as last year.

The left-hander has also reduced his walk rate compared to previous seasons, and according to a recent article by The Athletic, he will still command "a top 100 prospect, at least" in trade discussions.

Potential fits: Padres, Astros, Red Sox
7. RHP Ryan Helsley, STL
Control: FA after 2025

Ryan Helsley and his lethal slider could be one of the Cardinals' best trade assets if they decide to sell. This season, hitters have managed just a .197 average against his slider and have struck out over 48% of the time when facing it. The 29-year-old currently leads the majors in saves (24) and has an additional year of team control beyond this season.

There's no doubt that his value is at its peak right now, and with numerous teams seeking back-end relief pitching at the deadline, the Cardinals would be wise to consider trading him.

Potential fits: Dodgers, Rangers, Mariners
8. 1B Pete Alonso, NYM
Control: FA after 2024

One of the most formidable home run hitters in baseball, Pete Alonso is a pending free agent on a Mets team that is likely headed for a sell-off by the deadline. Alonso has hit 15 home runs, tying him for second among all qualified first basemen, and currently boasts a solid 124 OPS+.

A popular theory suggests that the Mets might trade Alonso for a significant return at the deadline and then re-sign him during the offseason. David Stearns has a reputation for crafting impressive trade packages, so expect Alonso to be on the radar of many contending teams in need of a power boost at first base.

Potential fits: Cubs, Mariners, Astros
9. OF Jazz Chisholm Jr., MIA
Control: FA after 2026

Dismiss any talk of Jazz Chisholm being overrated; he brings energy to the clubhouse and has been an above-average player all year. Now fully healthy, Chisholm has posted 10 home runs, 34 RBI, a .762 OPS, and a 112 OPS+ in 70 games.

While his Statcast metrics might not be eye-popping, he's in the 85th percentile for Barrel % and the 81st percentile for Batting Run Value. He may not be performing at a superstar level, but he offers power, speed, and significant team control. If the Marlins decide to fully embrace a rebuild, they should be open to trading anyone at this year’s deadline, including Chisholm.

Potential fits: Mariners, Giants, Dodgers
10. OF Tyler O’Neill, BOS
Control: FA after 2024

It turns out that all Tyler O’Neill needed was a change of scenery from St. Louis to rediscover his potential. The outfielder has hit 12 home runs, though he's driven in only 23 runs, indicating limited run-producing opportunities in Boston.

With the Red Sox just two games above .500, they still have a shot at a Wild Card spot. However, trading O’Neill at the deadline while his value is high would be a smart move. His .865 OPS ranks eighth among all outfielders (minimum 100 plate appearances), and he is also ninth in slugging and 11th in on-base percentage.

Potential fits: Phillies, Mariners, Royals
11. 3B Alex Bregman, HOU
Control: FA after 2024

Even in a down year, Alex Bregman remains an exceptionally talented third baseman. With his contract expiring and no extension in sight, could the Astros trade him at the deadline? We think so. In 68 games this season, the two-time All-Star has hit nine home runs and driven in 33 runs, posting a 100 OPS+. He’s a proven winner who would instantly upgrade third base for many playoff-contending teams.

Potential fits: Yankees, Blue Jays, Cubs
12. RHP Jack Flaherty, DET
Control: FA after 2024

Surprisingly, Jack Flaherty hasn't had an above-average season on the mound since 2021. However, like Severino, he is currently experiencing a significant resurgence and stands out as one of the most obvious trade candidates in baseball. The 28-year-old ranks second in the AL in K/9 and third in both BB/9 and FIP. Flaherty is not only making himself an appealing trade asset but also positioning himself for a lucrative multi-year free agent contract in the coming months.

Potential fits: Padres, Astros, Yankees
13. RHP Luis Severino, NYM
Control: FA after 2024

After his worst professional season, Luis Severino has turned his one-year contract with the Mets into an audition for potential suitors in the upcoming offseason. He has significantly boosted his overall value, currently sporting a 3.12 ERA and 123 ERA+ over 13 starts and 78 innings.

Much of this success can be attributed to an increased reliance on his sinker. This adjustment has led to a higher groundball rate and a record amount of soft contact induced. Drawing on his past successes, Severino has managed to outperform players like Williams and Fedde, even if they are having better seasons statistically.

Potential fits: Brewers, Orioles, Braves
14. RHP Erick Fedde, CWS
Control: FA after 2025

Our first non-rental, Erick Fedde, is enjoying a remarkable resurgence after spending last year in South Korea. The 31-year-old has revamped his pitching repertoire, with his new sweeper and split-change leading the way to impressive results.

This season, Fedde has made 15 starts and, like Williams, shows no signs of slowing down. He boasts a 3.10 ERA, ranking 14th in the AL, and has demonstrated impressive durability by going seven or more innings in three games already. With the White Sox set to sell off assets, Fedde is likely to be one of the first to go.

Potential fits: Astros, Padres, Orioles
15. RHP Trevor Williams, WSH
Control: FA after 2024

Trevor Williams is having the best season of his career and is a prime candidate to be traded at the deadline. The nine-year veteran has been dominant for the Nationals, defying expectations. While many anticipated a regression, Williams continues to deliver scoreless outings, making it hard not to believe in his performance. His success can largely be attributed to an increased use of his sweeper, against which batters are hitting just .107.

Although currently on the injured list, Williams has significant rental value. He ranks third among all starting pitchers in HR/9 (minimum 50 IP), ninth in ERA, and 15th in FIP.

Potential fits: Cardinals, Brewers, Orioles
16. LHP Yusei Kikuchi, TOR
Control: FA after 2024

Continuing with another Blue Jays player, Yusei Kikuchi has proven to be exceptionally durable and has shown significant improvement over the past two seasons. While his 2024 performance has had its ups and downs, his 3.26 ERA and 3.10 FIP are impressive, and he has allowed only one run over his last 11 innings across two starts. With numerous teams seeking reliable middle-of-the-rotation arms, Kikuchi stands out as a dependable option.

Potential fits: Guardians, Brewers, Braves
17. RHP Nick Pivetta, BOS
Control: FA after 2024

Nick Pivetta is no longer seen as just a back-of-the-rotation arm struggling to be league-average. Over his five-year tenure with the Red Sox, Pivetta has truly come into his own and could bring in a solid return if the team decides to trade him. In nine starts this season, he has posted a 3.88 ERA, 3.86 FIP, and 108 ERA+ across 46.1 innings. Since joining Boston, Pivetta has demonstrated impressive durability, a deep pitch mix, and the versatility to excel both as a starter and a reliever.

Potential fits: Brewers, Astros, Cardinals
18. C Danny Jansen, TOR
Control: FA after 2024

Danny Jansen and Alejandro Kirk have been a formidable duo for the past few years, but Jansen has significantly elevated his game in 2024. The 29-year-old excels in all aspects at the plate, ranking near the top among qualified catchers in BB%, K%, SLG, OBP, and wRC+ through 41 games this season. He could be a valuable asset for any team seeking power behind the plate or at designated hitter. However, his shaky health history may slightly impact his trade value.

Potential fits: Cubs, Phillies, Guardians
19. RHP Yimi Garcia, TOR
Control: FA after 2024

Yimi Garcia stands out as the only non-closer on this list. Despite the Blue Jays' overall disappointing season, Garcia has been quietly dominant. The 33-year-old ranks in the top 15 among AL relievers in K/9, ERA, and FIP, showcasing impressive durability. He can serve various roles for a contending team in need of a reliable arm and, being a rental, won't come at a high cost.

Potential fits: Dodgers, Rangers, Phillies
20. LHP Tanner Scott, MIA
Control: FA after 2024

Tanner Scott has transitioned from a frequently used middle reliever with the Orioles to a top-tier closer for the Marlins in just a few seasons. With an expiring contract, the left-hander boasts a 1.93 ERA over his first 27 outings this year. While save opportunities are limited in Miami, his high strikeout rate makes him an attractive option for any team in need of a lefty reliever.

Potential fits: Orioles, Royals, Rangers

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1. 3B Isaac Paredes, TBR
Control: FA after 2027

Isaac Paredes, 25, has built on his strong 2023 performance with an even more impressive 2024 season.

In 67 games, he boasts a .281 average, .822 OPS, and a 137 OPS+ with 10 home runs and 38 RBI. Most of his key statistics are already surpassing last year's strong numbers. If the Rays decide to trade him at the deadline, his value in discussions will be substantial. With his control, raw power, and the Rays' track record of rarely losing trades, they could achieve a significant return if they choose to move him.

Potential fits: Cubs, Astros, Mariners

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Top 20 MLB Stars with the Best Trade Value at the Deadline

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