The 2026 MLB trade deadline is fast approaching, and the drama is heating up. With just two weeks to go, front offices are in full swing, preparing for the big moves that could shape the second half of the season. Here are some bold predictions for the deadline, with a focus on the Tigers, Yankees, Cubs, and more.
Tigers Trade Tarik Skubal
The Tigers are in a unique position, with a strong record since June 1 and a shot at the AL Central title. However, their early-season struggles have left them in a challenging position. Despite their recent success, I predict that the Tigers will trade two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. The Braves need Skubal the most, but the Dodgers could step out of their comfort zone and make a move. The Tigers' recent hot streak won't change this, and the team will prioritize a draft pick over a potential postseason berth.
Cubs Add Mets Pitchers
The Cubs are in need of pitching reinforcements, and the Mets are ready to sell. With multiple rental starters and relievers available, the Cubs and Mets are a perfect trade partner match. I predict that the Cubs will acquire multiple Mets pitchers, including Freddy Peralta, Huascar Brazoban, and either A.J. Minter or Brooks Raley. This move will help the Cubs bolster their pitching staff and make a push for the postseason.
Giants Extend Luis Arraez
The Giants have had a terrible season, but extending Luis Arraez has proven to be a smart move. With a one-year deal worth $12 million, Arraez is having his best offensive season in years. I predict that the Giants will sign him to a three-year extension in the $15 million-per-year range. This move will keep Arraez in San Francisco and help the team rebuild.
Mariners Break Up Rotation
The Mariners have a luxury of six good starters, but they need more offense. I predict that they will trade Luis Castillo, the oldest and most expensive starter, to the Marlins. This move will bring in much-needed offense and allow the Mariners to focus on other areas of improvement.
Padres Sell, But Keep Miller
The Padres are in a downward trend, with a low-scoring offense and a crumbling pitching staff. I predict that they will sell at the deadline, but they will keep all-world closer Mason Miller. The team will focus on retooling around Miller and contending next year, rather than starting a full-blown rebuild.
Yankees Make Five Trades
The Yankees are known for their aggressive approach at the trade deadline. I predict that they will make at least five trades, adding a catcher, two relievers, a bench player, and another player. This move will help the Yankees address their needs and make a push for the postseason.
White Sox Add Controllable Starter
The White Sox have arrived ahead of schedule and are in contention for the AL Central title. I predict that they will add a controllable starter, such as Reid Detmers, to their core. This move will help the team maintain their long-term vision while making a push for the postseason.
Blue Jays Trade Rentals
The Blue Jays want to keep and extend Kevin Gausman, but I predict that they will trade three of their four big rentals: Shane Bieber, George Springer, and Daulton Varsho. This move will help the team clear space for new talent and make a push for the postseason.
Rays Trade and Add
The Rays are known for their strategic trading, and I predict that they will trade one starter, such as Drew Rasmussen, and add another starter, like Adrian Houser. This move will keep the team's machine moving and allow them to make a push for the postseason.
Cardinals Buy, But Not Aggressively
The Cardinals are in the wild-card race and need to honor their fans' expectations. I predict that they will buy rather than sell, adding a rental starter and reliever. This move will help the team make a push for the postseason without threatening their long-term plan.
