The Countdown to the MLB Trade Deadline

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, the buzz around potential blockbuster trades is reaching a fever pitch. General managers are working around the clock, and every move could significantly impact the playoff race. Here are the top 10 players most likely to be traded before the deadline:

1. Merrill Kelly, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks

Best fits: Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers

Merrill Kelly has been a consistent performer, boasting a 2.56 ERA over his last 10 starts. His postseason experience in 2023 makes him a valuable asset for any contender.

2. Ryan O'Hearn, 1B/OF, Baltimore Orioles

Best fits: Texas Rangers, Astros, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, Red Sox

O'Hearn's versatility is a key asset, though his recent slump might affect his trade value. Teams like the Rangers and Astros could benefit from his left-handed bat.

3. David Bednar/Dennis Santana, RHPs, Pittsburgh Pirates

Best fits: Tigers, Rangers, Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Cubs

Bednar is having a standout season, and his team control through 2026 adds to his appeal. Santana, with his 1.36 ERA, is also a valuable option for teams in need of bullpen help.

4. Griffin Jax, RHP, Minnesota Twins

Best fits: Dodgers, Yankees, Rangers, Tigers, Blue Jays

Jax's high strikeout rate and additional control years make him a hot commodity. The Twins might be tempted to trade him for a significant return.

5. Marcell Ozuna, DH, Atlanta Braves

Best fits: Rangers, San Diego Padres, Giants, Reds

Despite recent struggles, Ozuna's power potential could attract teams with weak DH production. His recent home runs might indicate a coming hot streak.

6. Charlie Morton, RHP, Baltimore Orioles

Best fits: Blue Jays, Cubs, Astros, Tigers, Red Sox, Padres, New York Mets

Morton has rebounded from a rough start, posting a 3.66 ERA since late May. His playoff experience could be invaluable for a contender.

7. Cedric Mullins, CF, Baltimore Orioles

Best fits: Philadelphia Phillies, Mets, Astros, Padres

Mullins' defensive metrics are mixed, but his speed and potential make him an intriguing option for teams in need of outfield help.

8. Adrian Houser, RHP, Chicago White Sox

Best fits: Pretty much any contender

Houser's resurgence with the White Sox has been remarkable. His improved curveball and velocity make him a potential playoff rotation candidate.

9. Mike Tauchman, OF, Chicago White Sox

Best fits: Phillies, Astros, Reds, Padres, Rangers, Blue Jays

Tauchman's higher OPS compared to Luis Robert Jr. makes him a more likely trade candidate. He could provide a boost as a DH or corner outfielder.

10. Ramon Laureano, OF, Baltimore Orioles

Best fits: Phillies, Padres, Mariners, Dodgers, Padres, Rangers

Laureano's solid performance and reasonable club option make him an attractive target. His right-handed bat could fill a need for several teams.

As the clock ticks down to the 6 p.m. ET deadline, these players are the ones to watch. Stay tuned for any surprise trades that could shake up the MLB landscape.