Today marks the deadline day for Major League Baseball.
Teams are finalizing deals for 40 roster players in anticipation of the playoffs, which means all trades need to be wrapped up by 6 PM Eastern. Time is still ticking, but we’ve already seen some significant trades happen on Wednesday night. The Philadelphia Phillies traded with the Minnesota Twins for hard-throwing reliever Joan Duran, while the Seattle Mariners picked up third baseman Eugenio Suárez from the Arizona Diamondbacks.
There’s likely to be more movement throughout the day, so let’s take a look at the latest rumors.
The San Diego Padres Seek Reinforcements
The Padres are currently just three games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West, having faced a challenging month; they’ve only managed a 10-14 record in July. As noted by SB Nation insider Eric Stephen, they hold the third wild card spot in the NL.
Still, they definitely need some assistance, particularly in their outfield. As reported by Athletic, two names they are keeping an eye on are Jarren Duran from the Boston Red Sox and Tommy Pham.
Interestingly, the Red Sox seemed poised to sell just a month ago, but a hot streak ahead of the All-Star Game has put them back in the playoff conversation. They’re now only five games out in the American League East and currently sit in the second wild card spot.
With a wealth of young outfield talent, Duran has been the subject of trade rumors for a while.
Dylan As a Possible Trade Piece
It’s important to note that right-hander Dylan could be pivotal for the Padres in any trade deals. His record this year is 3-10, and while a 4.79 ERA isn’t stellar, he does boast a solid SO/9 rate of 11.6, which ranks at the top in MLB. The pressure to win before the deadline is palpable.
According to MLB.com reporter Mark Feinsand, the Astros are targeting a pending free agent, making it feasible for the Padres to seek offensive help without complicating their financial situation.
Willi Castro Might Be On the Move
The deal for Joan Duran isn’t the only move the Minnesota Twins are expected to make today.
Multiple reports suggest that utility player Willi Castro may also be traded. He’s hitting .247/.338/.411 this season, with solid numbers including 15 doubles, 10 homers, and nine stolen bases.
He’s played various positions this season, showing flexibility throughout the diamond.
As for potential suitors, John Heyman from the New York Post suggests that the Mariners and Astros have shown interest.
The Yankees Are Making Moves
As the New York Yankees look to compete with the Toronto Blue Jays at the top of the AL East, they’re unlikely to sit on their hands today. They’ve already added a trio of players, including Ryan McMahon and Austin Slater, but more activity is expected.
They’ll likely focus on strengthening their pitching staff. According to Feinsand, they’re “still trying to add a reliever or two and maybe a starter that’s controllable, if possible.”
When it comes to pitching, chatter has turned to Pittsburgh Pirates starter Mitch Keller and closer David Bednar. Reports suggest the Yankees are keen on making a deal.
Bednar, in particular, is seen as an enticing option for the Yankees.
Meanwhile, Athletics closer Mason Miller is another reliever to keep an eye on as the trade deadline approaches.
In discussions about starting pitching, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi mentions potential trades involving the Marlins and Diamondbacks.
Alcantara, coming off Tommy John surgery, has shown promise with his recent performances, making him a more attractive option than a pure rental.
His control through the 2027 season might offer added incentive for a team looking for more than just a short-term solution.
Mason Miller Attracts Interest
As teams edge closer to the trade deadline, certain players draw considerable attention.
This was especially true Wednesday night when Athletics manager Mark Kotsay opted to go with Jack Perkins instead of Miller during a save situation against the Mariners.
Following the game, Kotsay revealed that Miller was unavailable but clarified it was not due to injury.
With Miller’s availability seemingly limited lately, speculation has mounted regarding his trade potential, particularly with the Yankees showing interest.
Interestingly, the Padres could see him shift to a starting role.
Miller’s past as a starter for the A’s could provide the depth the Padres need, especially if they decide to trade Dylan or Robert Suarez.
If they move one, Miller could fill the void either way, but that does leave gaps that will need addressing.
Toronto’s Pursuit of Phil Maton
The Toronto Blue Jays are also seeking bullpen assistance, joining the rush for relief pitchers.
According to Derrick Gould from the St. Louis Post Dispatch, the Blue Jays have expressed interest in relief pitcher Phil Maton from the St. Louis Cardinals.
Maton is quietly having one of his best seasons, boasting an ERA of 2.35 and impressive strikeout numbers.
Though he may not throw particularly hard, his breaking pitches and movement have clearly distinguished him, making him an intriguing option in this competitive market.
