MLB Trade Deadline Frenzy: Key Targets Emerge as Clubs Race Towards July 31
With the MLB trade deadline looming, top teams are aggressively pursuing player trades. Uncover key targets like Dylan Cease, Ryan Helsley, and more as the final roster adjustments take shape.
The Major League Baseball trade deadline of July 31 at 6 p.m. ET is rapidly approaching, sparking a flurry of activity as teams finalize their rosters. Only two days remain for clubs to complete their summer acquisitions. Some franchises have already made significant moves, with the Yankees acquiring infielders Ryan McMahon and Amed Rosario, and the Mariners securing first baseman Josh Naylor. The focus now shifts to which other prominent players will find new homes before the clock runs out.
Astros Eye Dylan Cease for Pitching Boost
The Houston Astros are reportedly making a strong push for Padres All-Star starting pitcher Dylan Cease, who is at the top of their wish list, a report from The Athletic indicates. Cease, an impending free agent at season’s end, could be dealt by the Padres if the return package significantly improves their major league roster.
A key challenge for the Astros lies in assembling sufficient offensive depth to satisfy the Padres’ demands, who are seeking a substantial bat at designated hitter and likely more than one player for Cease. The Astros’ rotation has been plagued by injuries, sidelining pitchers such as Lance McCullers Jr., Ronel Blanco, Spencer Arrighetti, J.P. France, Luis Garcia, and Cristian Javier. While several are expected to return soon, the enticing prospect of pairing Cease with Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez in a playoff rotation could compel Houston to finalize a deal. Astros’ roster ambitions
Blue Jays Reinforce Bullpen, Eye More Arms
The Toronto Blue Jays have initiated their deadline activity by acquiring right-handed reliever Seranthony Domínguez and cash from the Orioles. In exchange, Baltimore received pitching prospect Juaron Watts-Brown. Domínguez, 30, an impending free agent, has posted a 3.24 ERA and a 2.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 41 innings this season. Watts-Brown, 23, a 2023 third-round pick, has logged a 3.54 ERA and a 3.03 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 19 starts in High-A and Double-A.
Despite this acquisition, the Blue Jays remain highly interested in Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. This suggests that Domínguez could be the first of multiple bullpen additions for Toronto this week. Blue Jays’ acquisitions
Ryan Helsley: A Sought-After Closer
Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley recently stated his strong expectation of being traded before the deadline. “It’s a little bit different this time,” Helsley commented, adding, “The likelihood is probably as great as it’s ever been for me to get traded. I would say it’s 90% I go, 10% I stay.”
Should he be moved, Helsley is poised to join a contender. Among the heavy hitters showing interest are the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Phillies, Rangers, and Blue Jays, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reported. Helsley, an impending free agent, has maintained a 3.00 ERA and a 2.93 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 36 innings this year.
Brandon Lowe and Steven Kwan Draw Interest
The Tampa Bay Rays’ approach to the MLB trade deadline remains uncertain, but second baseman Brandon Lowe has attracted attention from both the Mets and Astros, the New York Post noted. Lowe, 31, is currently on the injured list with foot and ankle tendinitis but is expected to return to action as early as Wednesday. In 86 games this season, he has compiled a .269/.320/.480 slash line (121 OPS+) with 19 home runs and three stolen bases, contributing an estimated 1.2 Wins Above Replacement, per Baseball Reference. Lowe is under team control through next season via a club option. While he has played outfield in the past, he has primarily played second base in recent seasons.
The Guardians’ plans for the deadline could be impacted by closer Emmanuel Class’s current status under investigation. Still, both the Dodgers and Blue Jays are interested in outfielder Steven Kwan if he becomes available, according to The Athletic. Kwan, 27, boasts a .287/.351/.411 line (111 OPS+) with nine home runs and 11 stolen bases across 100 games this season, accounting for an estimated 3.3 Wins Above Replacement, per Baseball Reference. Kwan is controllable through the 2027 season, meaning the Guardians are not obligated to trade him. They could opt to retain him and pursue a playoff berth themselves, currently four games out of a spot and benefiting from one of the weakest remaining schedules in the majors.
Ryan O’Hearn: A Potent Bat on the Market
The Milwaukee Brewers are among the teams showing interest in Orioles first baseman and outfielder Ryan O’Hearn, according to The Athletic. The Brewers had previously pursued Josh Naylor before his trade to Seattle.
O’Hearn, 32, stands out as one of the most impactful bats still available on the trade market. In 92 games this season, he has hit .284/.375/.452 (134 OPS+) with 12 home runs. Primarily utilized in a platoon role during his tenure with the Orioles, O’Hearn has effectively reduced his strikeout rate, transforming from a fringe player into a reliable platoon asset. He is an impending free agent.
The final hours of the MLB trade deadline are set to deliver more high-stakes player movements as teams vie for a competitive edge.
