As the playoff deadline approaches, candidates are eager to enhance their rosters, but the available player pool is becoming quite limited.
Recent action on Wednesday saw the Mets acquire two standout relief pitchers, the Phillies secure star closer Joan Duran, and the Mariners finalize a deal for slugger Eugenios Ares. This has significantly narrowed the field of impactful players for teams in pursuit of playoff success.
While several top relief options remain, the starting pitching market is mainly focused on former stars who are currently facing struggles, and there are potential center fielders in play too.
With the 6 PM deadline looming on Thursday, here are the top five players rumored to be involved in trade discussions.
Mason Miller, A’s
I have some reservations about whether Miller actually makes the A’s contenders again, despite drawing interest from teams like the Padres. Reports indicate that negotiations for a potential Mason Miller trade are ongoing but not finalized.
On Wednesday night, the A’s pulled Miller from the closer role, with manager Mark Cotsou noting he was “unavailable,” sparking some speculation around the situation.
According to reports, acquiring Miller might require teams to part with top 25 prospects, as the righty is under contract through the 2028 season.
Stephen Kwan, Guardians
The Guardians are having a rough season, and they might look to capitalize on Kwan, who is under team control until 2027.
The Dodgers have been mentioned in connection with Kwan, especially since Michael Comfort has been performing well this season. However, the Padres and Phillies are also seen as possible suitors.
Kwan has showcased exceptional defensive skills, boasting a solid plus 14 defensive rating.
David Bednar, Pirates
If teams missed out on Duran and Ryan Healthley and don’t want to pay the price for Miller, Bednar could be an appealing alternative.
The right-hander has a record of 2-5 with a 2.37 ERA, fanning 51 batters in just 38 innings.
The Yankees are reportedly interested, but the Dodgers, Mariners, and others are also seeking late-game assistance.
Sandy Alcantara, Marlins
Alcantara, a former Cy Young winner, is having one of his toughest seasons after recovering from Tommy John surgery, with a 6-9 record and a 6.36 ERA.
Any team looking to acquire him will have control through the 2026 season. The big question is whether teams believe they can make a run in the next couple of months and if he’s worth a potentially hefty price tag.
Zach Gallen, Diamondbacks
Gallen is experiencing a challenging season as well, with a 5.60 ERA, but being a pending free agent may lower his acquisition cost.
The Diamondbacks have already moved some pieces, and with Gallen, fellow starter Merrill Kelly, and reliever Jalen Beeks potentially on the table, it seems they might be willing to part with more pitchers ahead of the deadline.
Expect Gallen to thrive away from Arizona’s hitter-friendly conditions, especially if he gets to pitch in a playoff race.
Honorable mentions include Orioles outfielder Cedric Mullins, White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr., Padres starter Dylan Cease, Padres closer Robert Suarez, and Orioles starter Charlie Morton.
