Top 50 Deadline Trade Candidates - MLB Trade Rumors

What the report says

MLB Trade Rumors published its updated list of the top 50 candidates to be moved before Major League Baseball’s Aug. 3 trade deadline, with Anthony Franco noting that deadline activity had remained relatively quiet as of July 28, 2026. The outlet said the market is complicated by a tightly packed playoff picture: only the Angels, A’s, Royals, Rockies, Mets and Giants were more than five games from a postseason position.

The list is not presented as a pure ranking of trade value or probability, but as a blend of impact and chance of being dealt. Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is ranked No. 1 because, in MLBTR’s view, no realistic target would do more to improve a contender’s World Series odds. The article says Detroit must weigh its fading 2026 position, Skubal’s pending free agency, his $32 million arbitration salary, and potential luxury-tax implications that could affect draft-pick compensation if he leaves in free agency.

San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller is listed second, though MLBTR characterizes a trade as unlikely unless San Diego receives a major return, potentially including controllable starting pitching. Giants infielder Luis Arraez is ranked third and described as highly likely to move, with MLBTR citing San Francisco’s poor season and the lack of extension talks.

Other highlighted candidates include Angels starters Reid Detmers and José Soriano, both under club control through 2028, and Mets starter Freddy Peralta, whose difficult season could still attract contenders looking for a low-cost rebound option. MLBTR also notes that any trade plans can shift quickly; after publication, Twins GM Jeremy Zoll said Minnesota planned to buy, reducing the chances of a Ryan Jeffers or Joe Ryan deal.