The 2023 Major League Baseball season is underway and with that comes a lot of MLB trade rumors with some of the best players in baseball potentially on the move. Sportsnaut will keep you updated with all the latest MLB rumors from now through Aug. 1.
Just a year ago, we saw an MLB trade deadline for the ages. Juan Soto, Josh Hader, Raisel Iglesias, Whit Merrifield, Jordan Montgomery, Noah Syndergaard and Luis Castillo were among the big names traded. Trades play a crucial role in how the postseason shakes out, so you can count on marquee names and even an All-Star selection or two being traded during the 2023 MLB season.
Related: MLB trade tracker
Let’s dive into the latest MLB trade rumors. As the calendar shifts to June, with more teams shifting their focus toward buying or selling, there should be even more MLB rumors to track.
Latest MLB trade rumors heading into July
Shane Bieber, other Cleveland Guardians drawing interest
Despite tacking on the wins as of late, teams are still calling the Cleveland Guardians about trades for their starting pitchers, with Shane Bieber at the head of the table. According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Guardians are taking lots of calls, but their recent surge could lead to a different mentality at the deadline. Now there’s a belief the Guardians could hold onto their pitching instead. Either way, they’re a team to watch as the Aug. 1 deadline nears.
Angels now considering Shohei Ohtani trade
The Los Angeles Angels made it fairly clear a few weeks ago that they had zero interest in trading Shohei Ohtani this summer. Now, slipping in the Wild Card standings and with Mike Trout sidelined through July, the Angels have informed rivals they’ll at least consider trading Ohtani (Jon Heyman). The asking price would be significant and the club won’t make a decision until later this summer, but the latest setback for Los Angeles could create an avenue for the AL MVP front-runner to be traded by Aug. 1
Cubs rumors: Chicago prepared to be buyers
The Chicago Cubs have a winning record in two of three months this season and with the NL Central up for grabs, it appears there will be buying in Chicago. In an interview with The Athletic, Cubs’ executive Jed Hoyer said the team has taken the approach of being a buyer at the MLB trade deadline. While there are still several weeks to make a final decision, it appears the Cubs intend to make a cautiously aggressive approach as buyers.
“Is there a point before (the Aug. 1 Trade Deadline) when we have to make a decision?. Yeah, of course. Obviously, a week ago at this time, we were talking about the buy side. I still want to be there. We need to start to climb back to .500 again, and we need to start that quickly.”
Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer
New York Yankees explored trade for Houston Astros outfielder
With Aaron Judge sidelined indefinitely, the New York Yankees are expected to be n the market for an outfielder. One name to keep an eye on is Houston Astros outfielder Chas McCormick. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The Yankees have previously expressed interest in McCormick, even engaging in trade talks with Houston, but a deal was never close. McCormick, age 28, is arbitration-eligible through 2026 and his right-handed power would play well in Yankee Stadium. Houston could also move him for a left-handed bet.
Pete Alonso trade extremely unlikely
While some New York Mets players believe the team could be sellers in July, All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso won’t be available. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic and Jon Heyman of the New York Post have both reported that it’s extremely unlikely the Mets even consider putting Alonso on the trade block this summer.
Pittsburgh Pirates’ trade deadline plans
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Pirates are expected to be sellers at the 2023 trade deadline. Outfielder Andrew McCutchen is viewed as one potential candidate, although the former All-Star has previously suggested he’d prefer to stay in Pittsburgh. The Pirates will also receive calls on All-Star closer David Bednar, but it remains to be seen if he’ll be available. Carlos Santana (.746 OPS), Rich Hill and Jose Hernandez are likely trade candidates.
New York Mets players think the team could be sellers
The Mets are out of the mix in the NL East and quickly becoming a non-factor in the NL’s Wild Card race this summer. As a result, multiple players in New York’s clubhouse have now privately hinted at a suspicion they might be traded in July, with the Mets’ front office adjusting its approach by choosing to become active sellers.
Houston Astros focused on hitting over pitching
During a radio appearance on the Sean Salisbury Show, Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown reaffirmed his focus on adding bats before the MLB trade deadline. While Houston’s top preference is on finding a left-handed hitter who can play multiple positions, the Astros are open to anyone who could improve their lineup. Through 81 games, Houston ranks 17th in batting average (.249), OBP (.319) and is 14th in OPS (.727). Addressing the lineup became more pressing with Yordan Alvarez (oblique) sidelined through mid-July.
Blue Jays rumors: Toronto’s approach to trade deadline
Speaking to reporters at the end of June, Toronto Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins made it clear what he and the front office will be prioritizing at the 2023 MLB trade deadline.
“The obvious area would be adding a starting pitcher. We need to balance that with the progress of Alek Manoah and Hyun Jin Ryu.”
Toronto Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins on approach to trade deadline
Entering play on June 30, Toronto ranked seventh in starting rotation ERA (3.94) but it also had to demote Alex Manoah and Hyun Jin Ryu just began facing hitters this month. The Blue Jays’ rotation would benefit from adding a fourth starter, allowing Toronto to ease the load on its top pitchers and potentially use Ryu as a sixth starting pitcher. A more pressing need, though, is addressing a bullpen that ranks 11th in ERA since May 1.
Max Scherzer trade could be possible in 2023
While the New York Mets have given no signal that they’re prepared to be sellers at the MLB trade deadline, the topic is generation discussion around the league. Max Scherzer, who turns 39 in July, wants to compete for a championship and that’s unlikely to happen in New York this year. As a result, there’s buzz around the league that the three-time Cy Young Award winner is open to waiving his no-trade clause if the right offer comes along (Anthony DiComo).
Texas Rangers interested in Andrew McCutchen
The Texas Rangers are one of the best teams in baseball this season. After being aggressive in free agency, that approach will now carry over into the MLB trade deadline. While the bullpen is one of the Rangers’ top priorities, Texas is also reportedly interested in Andrew McCutchen. The 36-year-old outfielder is performing well at the plate this season in his return with the Pittsburgh Pirates, posting a stellar 130 wRC+ with a .278/.397/.435 slash line in 67 games. McCutchen would improve the depth of the Rangers’ lineup, but Pittsburgh reportedly wants to keep him for now.
Mets rumors: New York taking an aggressive approach
The New York Mets have the highest payroll in MLB and it hasn’t led to them being anywhere close to the playoffs. However, their placement in the standings won’t alter their approach to the trade deadline. SNY’s Andy Martino reported that the Mets are looking to strengthen their bullpen, willing to take on bad contracts if it means acquiring high-end relievers. The thinking is that New York can take on bad contracts instead of giving up top prospects. Interestingly, in some cases, the Mets would then DFA the player with the bad contract.
Los Angeles Angels rumors: Shohei Ohtani won’t be traded
While the Los Angeles Angels briefly considered trading Shohei Ohtani before the 2022 trade deadline, no tangible talks ever materialized. However, some around baseball thought Ohtani would be available this summer. Instead, the Angels are squarely in the playoff picture entering July and Ohtani is playing at an MVP-caliber level. As a result, the team announced in late July that Ohtani won’t be traded. The two-way star will finish the season in Los Angeles but is widely expected to depart in free agency.
Los Angeles Dodgers rumors: Pitching is the focus
As July approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers are still in a position to make the playoffs but the club has fallen behind the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NL West. Amid the team’s up-and-down start, Dodgers’ president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman indicated to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic that pitching will be a priority.
“In Spring Training, I did not expect that in July we would aggressively be looking for pitching. With the injuries and where we are, I think that focus has shifted. There’s no question that [targeting pitching] is more likely than it was in March.”
Los Angeles Dodgers executive Andrew Friedman on targeting pitching on the trade market
The most obvious candidates for Los Angeles are Shane Bieber, Eduardo Rodriguez and Marcus Stroman. Bieber would be the costliest, as he can’t become a free agent this winter, while Stroman and Rodriguez have player options that are expected to be declined so they can test free agency.
Latest on St. Louis Cardinals’ approach to MLB trade deadline
The St. Louis Cardinals have fallen well short of expectations in 2023, closer to being 20 games below .500 than competing for a playoff spot. Despite the losing record, St. Louis won’t consider trading Paul Goldschmidt or Nolan Arenado this summer. Instead, per Jon Heyman, the Cardinals have three players identified as potential trade chips.
Chicago White Sox expected to be mini-sellers
Out of the postseason picture, the Chicago White Sox will head into July with one of the worst records in the American League. Despite having several high-end contributors who would attract significant interest, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the White Sox are only expected to shop players on expiring contracts. For more specifics on which players are available, check the story below.
Zack Greinke could be traded
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Zack Greinke is a name to watch in July. While he hasn’t previously surfaced in MLB trade rumors and Kansas City isn’t actively exploring a deal, some around the league believe he could be available. The 39-year-old is owed the remaining portion of his $8.5 million salary.
Through his first 14 starts this season, the veteran righty has a 4.65 ERA with a 1.13 WHIP and a .255 batting average allowed. He could function as a back-end starter for a playoff contender seeking a veteran, No. 5 starter.
Houston Astros have a specific target via trade
The Houston Astros will be buyers this summer once again, looking for pieces to improve their odds of repeating as World Series champions. However, the Astros’ roster isn’t nearly as strong as it was in 2022 and injuries have only made things worse.
While it’s still unclear exactly which players will be available for trade in July, Astros’ general manager Dana Brown hinted at what Houston will be targeting.
“We’re having meetings about trade, and if we can add a bat, that would be outstanding. We’re not opposed to adding another arm if it makes sense and if the deal is right, but I really feel like the pitching has carried us for the most part this season. If we can add a bat, that would be exciting. … A left-handed bat would be exciting, but any bat that can hit both sides, that’s actually good too. In terms of position, if you can get a guy that can play multiple positions, that would be great.”
Houston Astros GM Dana Brown on what team wants at MLB trade deadline
The most obvious target for Houston would be Cody Bellinger. A 6-foot-4 outfielder who can also play first base, Bellinger holds an outstanding 122 wRC+ with a .271/.337/.493 slash line through his first 37 games. He would provide Houston with left-handed power for its lineup and his positional versatility makes him an even better fit, especially with Yordan Alvarez sidelined.
Chicago Cubs expected to trade Marcus Stroman
The Chicago Cubs have fallen out of the postseason picture and with starting pitcher Marcus Stroman holding a player option for 2023, his days in Chicago could be numbered. The Cubs haven’t engaged in negotiations with the All-Start pitcher on a contract extension and they are expected to be a seller at the trade deadline.
Stroman, who can’t receive a qualify offer, is expected to be traded by MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. Chicago wants to get something for its ace while it can, otherwise, Stroman will depart in free agency without the Cubs receiving anything in return. As a half-season rental, Chicago’s return for Stroman will be very limited.
Latest on Texas Rangers targets at trade deadline
The Texas Rangers have been one of the biggest surprises in baseball this season, emerging as a clear contender in the American League. After going all-in on the open market, Ken Rosenthal told Ben Berlander on Flippin Bats that the expectation is that same approach will be taken at the 2023 MLB trade deadline.
“They’ve invested a ton of money the last two years in their club. They want to see this through. They want to max out, and the bullpen right now is their biggest hole.”
Ken Rosenthal on Texas Rangers’ approach to trade deadline
Entering June 11, Texas ranked 23rd in bullpen ERA (4.49), 19th in K-BB rate (14.5 percent) and 13th in bullpen fWAR (2.0). It’s a clear need to address and the Rangers have the farm system to acquire it either in quality or quantity.
New York Mets eyeing closer
According to Jon Heyman of the NY Post, the New York Mets have been scouting Cincinnati Reds closer Alexis Dias. The brother of sidelined Mets’ reliever Edwin Diaz, Alexis is 26 years old and has emerged as one of the best closers in baseball this season. Across his first 25 games, Diaz has struck out 48.9 percent of the batters faced this season with a .111 batting average allowed to 94 batters. It’s unknown if Cincinnati is willing to move him.
Philadelphia Phillies rumors hint at deadline plans
The Philadelphia Phillies entered June with a 25-30 record and one of the worst run differentials in baseball. It prompted speculation about the organization’s approach to the MLB trade deadline, with the possibility of becoming sellers. However, a six-game winning streak has turned the tide with Philadelphia’s front office expressing a different approach to the summer. Find more details below.
Shane Bieber trade return expected to be limited for Guardians
With baseball executives already eyeing Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Shane Bieber, it’s increasingly possible he’s dealt at the MLB trade deadline. However, the Guardians might not get nearly as much for him as they could’ve if he was traded before the season.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that Cleveland is not expected to receive a “significant return” if it trades Bieber. As one MLB executive put it, the veteran just isn’t a true difference-maker for World Series contenders.
“I can’t say with 100 percent certainty he’s a playoff difference-maker.He may help you get there, but I don’t know that he’s the answer in the playoffs.”
MLB executive on Cleveland Guardians pitcher Shane Bieber
Among the issues with Bieber, his fastball velocity (91.5 mph average) is down considerably from where it was in 2019 (93.2 mph) and 2020 (94.3 mph). He’s also experiencing a dip in velocity on some of his secondary pitches, his Swinging Strike rate (10.1 percent) plummeted and he holds a career-worst 9.9% K-BB rate after posting a 20.5 percent K-BB rate in 2022.
San Francisco Giants to be buyers at MLB trade deadline
Appearing on MLB Network’s Front Office, San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi said he expects to be “aggressive” at the MLB trade deadline with the mindset of being a buyer. After missing the playoffs in three of the last four years, the Giants want to be playing late in October and are prepared to make the moves necessary to accomplish that.
Regarding what areas of need San Francisco can address, it’s fairly obvious. Entering paly on June 4, the Giants ranked 15th in batting average and 10th in wRC+. Catcher and outfield (16th in wRC+) are positions to address and San Francisco will want to address a bullpen that ranks 21st in ERA through its first 60 games.
Latest Milwaukee Brewers rumors regarding MLB trade deadline
The Milwaukee Brewers surprised many in 2022 by trading All-Star closer Josh Hader in the middle of a playoff race. It was the result of an organization’s interest in trimming payroll, with a team that operates on a smaller payroll looking to cut future costs.
It’s played a role in Corbin Burnes and Willy Adames being floated in MLB trade rumors this year. Even as Milwaukee sits atop the NL Central, some are keeping an eye on its top players. However, per Jon Heymann of the NY Post, Milwaukee doesn’t intend to be sellers at the MLB trade deadline.
Shane Bieber could be traded by Cleveland Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians were viewed as the favorite to win the AL Central in 2023. Entering June, Cleveland has one of the worst records in baseball and ranks third in the worst division in MLB. It could have significant ramifications on their plans at the MLB trade deadline.
MLB insider Jon Heyman named starting pitcher Shane Bieber as one of the potential trade options this summer. Bieber, who has previously been floated in MLB trade rumors, is owed the remainder of his $10 million salary this season and then is arbitration-eligible for the final time in 2024. With the cost of starting pitching contracts rising and Cleveland boasting a wealth of arms, Bieber could realistically be traded in July.
Latest on Detroit Tigers pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez
The Detroit Tigers have rebounded from a 2-9 start and 7-13 record, posting a winning record in May. However, there remains uncertainty regarding Detroit’s viability as a playoff contender and it could have a significant influence on the MLB trade deadline.
MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand touched on the current situation in Detroit, suggesting that the Tigers might trade their ace. The 30-year-old holds an opt-out this winter, providing him with the opportunity to turn down $49 million over the next three seasons to become a free agent. Considering he has pitched at an All-Star level this year and would earn far more than $50 million in a multi-year deal on the open market, Detroit might ultimately trade him.
Milwaukee Brewers to trade Corbin Burnes?
While the Milwaukee Brewers lead the NL Central, they could be sellers at the trade deadline this summer. At a time with limited MLB trade rumors about available starting pitchers, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic believes Burnes is one of the likeliest players to be traded.
Rosenthal makes the case that Milwaukee won’t be able to sustain its placement atop the division and will eventually fall out of the playoff race. He also cites what happened last year, when the Brewers traded Josh Hader despite being in the playoff hunt. One other factor to keep in mind, Burnes is only under contract through 2024 and Milwaukee might believe now is the best time to move him.
What teams will sell at the MLB trade deadline?
Even months in advance of the MLB trade deadline, executives, scouts and analysts are examining the league for potential buyers and sellers in July. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand highlighted several teams who might be sellers this year. Beyond the obvious teams – Kansas City Royals, Oakland Athletics, Washington Nationals, Cincinnati Reds and Colorado Rockies, Feinsand’s conversations with MLB executives lead him to believe the San Francsico Giants and St. Louis Cardinals might also trade away some of their win-now talent and half-season rentals this summer.
Related: MLB power rankings
When is the MLB trade deadline?
The MLB trade deadline is on August 1. Major League Baseball adopted a movable trade deadline in the last CBA, allowing the league to choose a date that is most effective for teams and benefits the league from a marketing perspective. The 2022 MLB trade deadline was on Tuesday, Aug. 2.
Related: MLB games today
Can MLB teams make trades?
MLB teams are allowed to make trades until the deadline on Tuesday, Aug. 6. However, a majority of the biggest MLB trades will come in July and on Aug. 1.